December 19, 2018

“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.’” – Luke 2:10

“Merry Christmas!” – Words that we have heard so often that they have lost their significance. Many of us are anything buy merry at Christmas time. The world is usually caught up in too much materialism and discontentment to truly be merry. But Christians also often miss the joy that should naturally come during this season. In our effort to convey the true meaning of Christmas, we often come across as somber or even angry during this time. Do not get me wrong, there is plenty about the Gospel that requires great reverence and repentance. But the angel did not appear to the shepherds and say, “I bring you somber news of great sorrow.” This time of year, we are celebrating the unfathomable miracle of God coming to our rescue! (Matthew 1:21) We celebrate the amazing gift of the Word becoming flesh and making His home here with us! (John 1:14) So as you try so earnestly to let the world know the truth of this incredible season, do it with abundant and contagious joy. I wish you a Merry Christmas!