Good news!

Look, there on the mountains, the feet of one who brings good news, who proclaims peace! – Nahum 1:15

World news bombards us from the Internet, television, radio, and mobile devices. The majority seems to describe what’s wrong – crime, terrorism, war, and economic problems. Yet there are times when good news invades the darkest hours of sadness and despair – stories of unselfish acts, a medical breakthrough, or steps toward peace in war-scarred places.

The words of two men recorded in the Old Testament of the Bible brought great hope to people weary of conflict.

While describing God’s coming judgment on a ruthless and powerful nation, Nahum said, “Look, there on the mountains, the feet of one who brings good news, who proclaims peace!” (Nah. 1:15). That news brought hope to all those oppressed by cruelty.

A similar phrase occurs in the book of Isaiah: “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation” (Isa. 52:7).

Nahum and Isaiah’s prophetic words of hope found their ultimate fulfillment at the first Christmas when the angel told the shepherds, “Do not be afraid. 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” (Luke 2:10–11).

The most important headline in our lives every day is the very best news ever spoken – Christ the Savior is born!

– David McCasland READ: Nahum 1:7–15 The birth of Jesus is the best news

the world has ever received! Bible in a Year: Hosea 12–14 and Revelation 4