Text: Luke 2:1-20
Throughout this study, we are tracing the theme of joy surrounding the birth of Jesus. It was first expressed by Elizabeth when baby John leaped for joy at the arrival of Jesus. This then led Mary to be filled with joy for the great things that God her Savior was doing. We now fast-forward several months to the scene in Bethlehem as the calm, silent night sky was interrupted with a heavenly message of great joy for all people. Perhaps you hear this and conclude that it’s too good to be true. Maybe you reason, “Sure, this joy was for Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth, and all the people that God favors, but it can’t possibly be for me.” You may be beaten up by guilt and shame, worn down by pressures and burdens, or weary of the many circumstances and struggles, but the emphatic word from God is clear, “There is good news of great joy for all the people,” which certainly includes you. We invite you to listen today to discover how you can know this joy, embrace it, and offer it to others.