Joy To The World

Picture the scene at the time of Christ's birth. The newborn King and his parents surrounded by glorious light. Excitement and wonder fill the air. Awe, amazement, and pure joy, with a sprinkle of anxiety about the future, were surely felt on that oh, so Holy Night. Mary and Joseph did not have the means of communication that we enjoy today, and still word of their baby King's birth spread. They knew he was destined for greatness but still, you have to wonder if they were able to comprehend that this tiny infant was the Savior of the World.

It would be hard to imagine that the joy of that night could ever be replicated. Surely, it was a time like no other. Still, even today with all that is wrong in the world, there can be joy. Christmas is the perfect time to be opportunistic about spreading the gospel and extending the joy of Jesus Christ. Joy doesn't require a credit card or cash, in fact, the joy of Christ is priceless and cannot be purchased. It is a true gift! Share joy with the world through a thoughtful note written to encourage or a simple act of kindness. Give a gift that can't be packaged or tie in a bow such as patience, hope, love or your time.

The miracle of the birth of Jesus is as powerful today as it was on that glorious, silent night. Think of how you can make this Christmas different. Celebrate in a way that lights up the darkness and generate joy that ripples throughout the universe. After all, there should be joy in the world - the Lord Jesus has come and he is alive and reigns over all.

'Let the heavens be glad, and the earth rejoice! Tell all the nations, "The Lord reigns!" 
1 Chronicles 16:31