"Joy"

John the Baptist in Mom’s belly,

When he heard sweet Mary’s voice,

Leaped for joy inside her,

I’m sure he had no choice.

And when Mary made her song of praise,

So filled with joy was she,

Her hymn went in Luke’s gospel,

And down to you and me.

The angels’ mighty chorus,

Brought tidings of great joy,

To tell the lowly shepherds,

That God had sent His boy.

And shepherds filled with awestruck joy,

Found the baby where they said,

Told everyone what they had seen,

The joyful news they spread.

And filled with joy old Simeon,

First Christmas was his last,

Ready now to die in peace,

Ad that’s just what he asked.

And so the joy of Jesus’ birth,

And Jesus’ life alike,

His death and resurrection,

To bring us into light,

And fills us up with heaven’s joy,

It’s fullness there we’ll find,

His promise we can count upon,

Because He’s true and kind.

And we know that on the way,

The Spirit’s joyful fruit,

Will give us gladness, with it strength,

And never will dilute.

So joy to all the world today,

As the bells of Christmas ring,

The greatest news we celebrate,

Joy changes everything.

“But the angel reassured them. ‘Don’t be afraid!’ he said. ‘I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior- yes, the Messiah, the Lord- has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David.” (Luke 2:10-11, NLT)

Never fear any news heaven brings! if it’s true and it comes from the Lord it’s something that will set us free, just as Jesus said. The good news the angels shared concerning the birth of the Messiah would ultimately bring great joy to all people. Nothing condemning or shaming or judgmental about it! It is joyous! The best news anyone could hear, and what will heal and transform our lives. Joy is “consistent gladness of heart.” When we believe and receive Jesus, joy becomes the consistent overflow of our lives and daily strength. Joy spills out on others and prompts us to share the Good News with everyone. If people knew the joy they could have everyone would be saved! This takes nothing away from the fact that God is a holy God and will ultimately judge the world. The Judge gives us His joy!

Lord, fill us with Your joy, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Clark Kelley Price, used by permission. Thanks, Clark, and God bless you.