Fear Not, Anxiety, and Christmas

“Fear not!” is probably one of the most often quoted instructions in the Holy Bible. It has been noted that there are over 200 references to this instruction.

My all-time favorite is what was declared by the Prophet Isaiah: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (41:10 ESV).

The verse offers a promise of divine presence alongside practical assistance whenever needed. How fitting this is during chaotic times, such as what we are experiencing now!

In the first Christmas narrative, “Fear not!” was conveyed to Mary the virgin, when she was apparently deeply troubled after hearing the angel’s announcement that she will conceive and give birth to a son.

This was quite understandable. After all, Mary had no intimacy with any man, even to the one she was betrothed for marriage.

The same “Fear Not!” was announced to the shepherds who were abiding in the fields at night taking care of their flocks so that they will be safe from predators.

You see, in the quietness of the night, suddenly they were covered with bright shining light that caused them to be terrified.

Fear is often a result of being exposed to something uncertain of which one does not have complete control.

In Mary’s situation, she was afraid because she did not know how to respond to the potential experience of conceiving and giving birth. “How can this be?” she asked.

In the shepherds’ case, they were fearful because they did not know what the outcome of the bright light that interrupted their otherwise quiet night with its usual darkness was. 

The psychological dynamics of fear is anxiety.  Existentialists would propose that the main foundation of anxiety is fear of the termination of one’s life.

Exposure to death or near-death experiences and their uncertainty is the basic reason people become anxious. 

When anxiety is not properly addressed and resolved, it develops into a full-blown disorder that merits a psychiatric diagnosis.

Some may not be aware that Anxiety Disorder is one of the top three mental health admissions in the United States, along with Major Depression and Addiction. 

Generalized anxiety, post-traumatic stress, phobia of various types, panic attacks, and obsessive-compulsive types are examples of different anxiety disorders.  

Is it not ironical to note that we are living in a land of plenty, where we have the most powerful military for our protection, and where our wealth can acquire all things at our disposal and yet we are a fearful people?

This shows us that wealth and things are unable to grant us inner peace and sustained joy!

When anxiety remains unresolved it grows. This is like a weed in the garden that will grow in time if it is not pulled out or treated regularly.

Left unto its own, anxiety will disturb sleep patterns, impair appetite, harm relationships, distort the thought process, and damage the whole well-being.  It can also result in a profound sense of hopelessness. 

So, what is the antidote to fear or anxiety?

Let me share with you that medication alone will not do the trick, although it will help diminish symptoms.

The scientific study will inform us that the primary defense towards anxiety is a combination of proper medication and regular counseling. 

What will add to the recovery from anxiety is the integration of spirituality that embraces trust in the Higher Power, who remains sovereign despite current circumstances.

Thus, the first Christmas narrative offers a clue.

To Mary were given these words after “Fear not!” “… you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.” (Luke 1).

To the shepherds who were terrified when exposed to the extremely bright light of God’s glory these words were given by the angel, “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today, in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” (Luke 2).

In both situations, the uncertainty turned out to be a pleasant surprise!

I propose that the same message of “Fear not!” is conveyed to us today, especially as we are navigating the uncertain season of the Pandemic.

Unfortunately, materialism, a philosophical worldview that is primarily characterized by the acquisition of things, has invaded our thought process that even the celebration of Christmas has become so commercialized.

Thus, the focus on externals items like trees, parties, gifts, and apparel has become a source of worry to many. 

Today the message of the angel resonates powerfully. “Today, the savior is with you.”

And let me add, “He is willing to liberate you from all that brings you anxiety: from your overwhelming concern over personal safety; from your experiences of pain and suffering; from your challenges which seem insurmountable; from your addictive patterns; and your sense of helplessness! Remain close to Him, and peace shall be yours!” 

The experience of inner peace is a direct outcome of the indwelling Spirit that sustains anyone who abides in God.

This is the most powerful antidote to anxiety!

The need to control, a big part of one’s propensity to be anxious, will be replaced with a simple faith in the God who promised well-being for those who trust in Him!

Let this enduring message of Christmas bring you fearless hope.