God chose to announce the coming of the promised Messiah through his messengers – angels. Three appearances highlight the Christmas story: Gabriel’s declaration to Mary and then Joseph, and the angel’s proclamation to the shepherds watching over their sheep outside Bethlehem. In all three, the initial response was fear. Each time, the angel gives a similar message: “Don’t be afraid; I’ve got great news.” Their message brought four things to those who heard, the same things that the message of the angels should bring to us this Christmas: courage, humility, joy and peace.