Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. Luke 2:9-10
It is beautiful when a new life comes into the world. The new bundle of joy brings with it the potential to do great things, perhaps the things we only dreamed of, but in this child lies new hope. As parents, grandparents, aunties, and uncles, we experience this joy, but there has been only one child ever born who has brought great joy to all people: Jesus Christ.
Jesus, in his short 33 years, brought joy to some: those he came into contact with, his family, disciples, and those he healed. But paradoxically, all people could not experience the joy in his life but in his death. By carrying all our sins to the cross, we may encounter elation from the deliverance of sin and death.
The word “all” means no one is excluded for any reason! Jesus extends the invitation not based on who we are but on who he is. Christ desires that everyone have equal access to this great joy. Whatever sin we’ve committed, no matter how heinous, Jesus ensures us the same access to happiness. The only qualification is we also die. Not a physical death, but in accepting Him, we die spiritually to our sinful self and take on His Spirit.
In Christ, we experience joy from our deliverance from sin and the ability to find joy in unjoyful situations. Where formerly we were crushed by the overwhelming, we encounter comfort, hope, and peace because the Holy Spirit is with us.
Dear God, we thank you for the good news of great joy that you have brought to all people through the birth of your son, Jesus Christ. We pray that this message of hope and love will continue to spread throughout the world for generations upon generations, touching the hearts of all who hear it. We ask that you help us to be messengers of your love, sharing this good news with everyone we meet. May your light shine through us, bringing hope and healing to a world that so desperately needs it. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
Merry Christmas! May the joy of Jesus Christ be with you now and forever.
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