12 Days Of Christmas: Fear Not

“Charlie Brown, you’re the only person I know who can take a wonderful season like Christmas and turn it into a problem. Maybe Lucy’s right. Of all the Charlie Browns in the world, you’re the Charlie Browniest.”

- Linus

On December 9, 1965, “A Charlie Brown Christmas Special” based on Charles Schulz’ animated comic strip, Peanuts, made its debut. It soon became a holiday staple and for decades to follow, was part of the Christmas tradition in homes across America.

In this special, Charlie Brown finds himself depressed even though the holidays are approaching. Lucy suggests he direct a neighborhood Christmas play, but everyone ignores his instruction. Frustrated, he throws his arms in the air and shouts “Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?”  And that’s when Linus, his famous security blanket in tow, begins his speech:

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

- Luke 2:8-14

There is a crucial detail that makes Linus' speech extremely relevant and which many people claim was subtly, but purposefully, put in by the artist, Mr. Schulz. Linus drops his beloved security blanket during his speech. The audience is shocked!  He never lets go of that blanket. Ever! But he does now. And when does he drop it? At the exact moment he begins the phrase, "Fear not!" That's when he drops his blanket.

It feels like in the past year, we’ve all become more aware of the security blankets we cling to. Maybe it’s security in a vaccine or in a particular politician. Security in our job or a roof over our heads.  The reality is, there is no guarantee that we’ll have any of it tomorrow. But, as Linus so beautifully illustrates, our security rests in the good tidings of great joy for ALL people! Fear not!

May that good news surround your family this Christmas.

Pastor Pam

‍