Joy to the world

     It’s during this time of year that we see the massive push of commercialism more than ever. Buy, buy, buy is in the air. Many become so turned off by it all they become like Scrooge and shout out, “Bah, humbug.” I know how that many have forgotten that it is about a babe, who was the very Son of God, who came down to man.  Yet, despite how all of this might be true, I am reminded of Fred’s words, from A Christmas Carol, “Well I say God bless it.”

     Christ has come to earth and there should be a celebration. There should be a sense of hope. There should be laughter and above all there should be JOY. The Word has become flesh and has dwelt among men. “Joy to the world, the Lord has come, let earth receive her king, let every heart prepare Him room, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing.”

     Joy, is one of the great themes of the Christmas message. It constantly flows throughout the Christmas narrative as individuals hear of the Savior’s birth.

·         John, as an infant within his mother’s womb upon hearing of how the Word would become flesh, leaped for joy. (Luke 1:44)

·         Mary, in the Magnificat , says, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” (Luke 1:46-47)

·         Praise flows from Zechariah’s lips as he realizes his son will prepare the way for the Lord. (Luke 1:68-79)

·         So great was the shepherd’s joy that they had to go and tell others about the Savior’s birth. (Luke 2:17)

·         Devout Simeon who had waited for the consolation of Israel took up the baby Jesus in his arms and “Blessed God.” (Luke 2:28)

·         Anna, the prophetess gave thanks for the redemption of Israel. (Luke 2:38)

·         Joseph, when finding out about the truth of whose child Mary was carrying in her womb showed his joy by doing what the Lord had commanded him. (Matthew 1:27)

·         The Wisemen, when they saw the star, “Rejoiced, with exceedingly with great joy.” (Matt. 2:10)

     As followers of the Lamb we of all people should be marked as those filled with joy. The Savior of all mankind has stepped down from Heaven to dwell among men. The God man has taken upon flesh. The beauty of Christmas is realizing that the greatest gift given to man has already come. God has answered our prayers through the gift of His son. This should be our greatest joy.