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BY DEBORAH J. KEATON

During the frenzied weeks of Advent, we seek respite from our bondage to busy schedules and the chaos of Christmas preparations. The sweet sounds of familiar Christmas carols remind us of the Good News of the coming Messiah. Our hearts are touched and for a brief time our world is transformed into a kinder and more generous place.

But for others, Christmas is not a good experience. For some, the season only brings more grief, loss, loneliness and despair. For these dear souls, good news often means having food on the table, being accepted in society and knowing their children will have a better future.

This reminds me of an old Negro spiritual titled "Ain't That Good News," which was first sung by enslaved African Americans who were suffering greatly at the hands of their oppressive slave-masters. The writer used words such as "home," "shoes," "robe," and "freedom" to encourage slaves to continue believing that the future would bring freedom from the injustices of their day. God didn't forget about them, and thankfully, God's grace and favor continues to be granted to us living in this present day.

Some years ago I recall sitting in a hospital room with my younger sister. The doctor told her that she had an aggressive form of cancer. The shock caused me to zone out for a bit, yet I could still hear the doctor speaking. It was surreal. I wondered what this would mean for my sister who was a new bride, a mother, a grandmother and a friend to many.

Then I heard the doctor say, "Joyce, I've got good news for you." Good news? How could "good news" fit in with a diagnosis of cancer? Still the doctor assured Joyce that she did not need to be afraid. Her surgeon and the medical team committed themselves to doing everything in their power to pull her through. She just needed to have faith and trust them. Without hesitation, Joyce replied, "I am not afraid, I have faith. I know God is with me." I echoed these same words silently in my heart.

In the Gospel story, an angel tells Mary not to be afraid because she has found favor with God. Mary chose to demonstrate her faith by moving forward – despite being troubled by the news and pondering the meaning of the outcome. (I'm so grateful for God's grace that allows us the freedom to "ponder," aren't you?) In the days that followed, my sister, along with the rest of the family, struggled with questions. Like Mary, we pondered, and we refused to "be afraid."

Today my sister's health continues to improve. She is back at work and enjoys a stable life once again. I am grateful for the Good News that God sent through the words of the doctor that day. Both my faith and my witness were strengthened as a result and I am now able to boldly proclaim with those who are facing a crisis, these words of hope: "Fear not, you who are highly favored, the Lord is with you." Ain't that good news?

Deborah J. Keaton is a Certified Lay Minister who serves as Director of Christian Family Education at Colesville UMC.