Luke 2:9-10
Verse 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.
Our anticipation builds as we enter the third week of advent. This week we will explore joy and the various ways it can change our lives. The angel that spoke to the shepherds knew the joy Jesus would bring and told the rugged men not to fear because the message they were bringing was one of great joy. This story still brings great joy to all people.
When taking a survey of people’s favorite holidays, Christmas is often the winner. There are some who start celebrating in October and others who wait until after Thanksgiving. There are even a few who manage to celebrate all year long. Why is it such a popular holiday? Many would say it is because the season makes them happy. But is happiness what the angels were talking about?
The Greek word which is translated as joy is more than mere happiness. It speaks more about gladness and delight. When we delight in something it will bring us joy even thinking about it. This is part of what people consider the magic of Christmas. The truth is it may be more about our focusing on something to do with the Lord than the holiday itself. Those who aren’t believers may find some joy in the season but they can’t know the fullness of the joy because they don’t know joy is the result of God moving.
When we focus on Christ during the Christmas season we can find the fullness of joy because we are looking to the very One who is pouring out the joy. Jesus is the joy of the season. While the season brightens many a heart, only Christ can bring life to our hearts. As we sing carols regaling the events of that first Christmas, we are reminded of what He came to do. The reason for our joy isn’t because He was a baby, but how that Baby would live a perfect life to become the perfect sacrifice. That knowledge should bring us greater joy than we have ever known.
Making It Personal
What does your joy-meter read? What part of Christmas brings you joy? Do you try to help others find the joy of Christ?
Making It Personal Kids
What is something about Christmas that brings you joy? Why do you think it brings you joy? Do you try to share that joy with others?
Closing Prayer
Father, thank You for the joy of the season. Give us hearts that seek You and the true meaning of Christmas so that our joy in You is a year-long delight. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Comments