Joy!
Written by Lorraine Amelsberg
"And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, 'Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.'"
-Luke 2:9-11
I have a vivid memory of an elementary school Christmas program. I waited expectantly with classmates behind the red velvet stage curtain, ready in white cloth capes and gold tinsel crowns. At the cue, we stepped onto the brightly lit stage, smiling and singing as angels, "Joy to the world! The Lord has come!"
I recall having a great sense of actual joy in these moments! Even as a 4th grader, I was thanking and loving Jesus.
But the birth and life of Jesus is not just a children’s sweet story! He is inviting young and old, our families, friends, coworkers, and neighbors into this redemption story with Him. He is offering us all a better story!
So, let’s reread the Gospels to be reminded of this new life in Jesus and His provisions of joy, peace, and love!
And let’s sing with the angels, “Glory to God in the highest! Peace on earth and goodwill to all people!”
And let’s join with others in sharing this welcoming “GOOD NEWS” of astounding love and grace!
“God so loved the world, He gave His Only Son that whoever believes in Jesus will not perish but have eternal life!” -John 3:16
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, fill us today with Your joy and love as we thank You for the gift of Yourself for each of us!
