Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased! Luke 2:14
The birth of Jesus brings peace to those who believe. Peace. Rest. And then Joy! For me, when I lack peace, when I feel all frazzled and rushed and fearful and antsy, I will not be living with true joy any time soon. I might be getting things done or showing up on time for the stuff on my calendar, but I will be missing out on the peace-filled joy that Jesus offers.
When we think of traditional Christmas Scriptures, we might remember Luke 2:10-11 ~ And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
Good news of great joy – Jesus gives us this ultimate joy. He was born a baby, a human just like us!, and lived a sinless life in order to die in our place as payment for our sins. Jesus came to take away sins and destroy the works of the devil (1 John 3). He had to be born like us in every way so that he could be our merciful and faithful mediator, going to God on our behalf. He suffered and was tempted so that he is able to help us who struggle in this world (Heb. 2:17-18). And with HIM is plentiful redemption for these struggles (Psalm 130).
As we get closer to Christmas, it’s easier to be reminded of this joy. But Jesus came to seek and save the lost all year long, so let’s remember that when we feel frazzled, rushed, fearful or busy in June and September too. And if you are a Christian – not a religious person or a rule follower or someone trying to be ‘good,’ but one who believes that Jesus is the solution and substitution for your sin – then you will have peace from God (Romans 5:1) and His joy also!
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace and joy to you and me who believe in Him.
Photo by Sean Wells on Unsplash