Christmas has passed. The lights are still up, the tree may still be standing—but the rush has faded, and for many, fear has returned.

In this post-Christmas reflection from Luke 2, we revisit the familiar story of shepherds, angels, and a child born in Bethlehem—and hear it again as if for the first time. Why was the angel’s first command not rejoice or celebrate, but “Fear not”? And why does that message still matter long after December 25?

This message explores:

• How familiarity with the Christmas story can dull our sense of wonder
• Why God chose to reveal Himself first to ordinary, overlooked people
• The astonishing humility of Christ’s coming “in the fullness of time”
• Why Christianity uniquely proclaims a God who does not remain distant from suffering—but enters it Himself
• How the manger points to the cross, and the cross to resurrection hope

Drawing from Luke’s Gospel, Galatians 4, historical reflection, and the unforgettable scene from A Charlie Brown Christmas, this sermon reminds us that Christmas does not end in Bethlehem—and that fear does not have the final word.

That is the gospel.

That is our hope.