12.22.24 - Joy to the World

December 22, 2024

Jay Vanderbur

How are you doing with joy these days? Joy is one of the themes of the first Advent of Christ. When Mary (pregnant with Jesus) comes to visit Elizabeth (pregnant with John the Baptist) the Scriptures tell us that John “leaped with joy” in the womb of Elizabeth (Luke 1:44). The angel’s word to the shepherds was, “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10). Christmas is a reason for joy – but joy isn’t just found in the warmth of family gatherings and joy isn’t just found in the gift that you have been hoping for - Christmas tells us that joy is found in a Person... He’s in the manger... He’s been promised... He’s Heaven come to Earth to be with us... in Him is fullness of joy! Your Christmas get together may not go perfectly... maybe you won’t receive that gift you’ve been hoping for... but rest assured, joy can be yours this Christmas!