Luke:2 (NIV)

¹⁰ But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. ¹¹ Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. ¹²This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

As Christmas day approaches, you may have a list of people you intend to bless with gifts.

You may even participate in a secret gift exchange with a group of friends.

You’ve probably been checking the sales and going from store to store trying to get just the right gifts.

Today there’s even the convenience of online shopping and you can order gifts from your laptop.

  Or perhaps you have been so kind as to make donations of toys or food to a family in need during this holiday season.

In Luke 2:10 the announcement of the birth of Jesus is described as an event that would bring great joy to all people.

 The angel was very clear in the declaration that the birth of Jesus would not only bring joy to those who were living during those times  but His birth would bring each one of us great joy!

There was no making lists with names, there was no pulling names from a hat,  and there was no searching to find what particular family was in need.

 The birth of Jesus was and still is a gift of great joy to all of us.

 What an awesome gift!

 All you have to do is accept it and say thank you, Lord.

 The gift was lying in a manger and was wrapped in swaddling clothes.

 There was no elaborate wrapping paper, but yet it is the best gift anyone could receive.

In good times and in bad times, treasure your joy because it truly is a gift from God!

This Christmas season, I am praying you all have a blessed time with family and friends.  I pray you are safe in your travels.  I pray you are happy with the gift of joy that has been so graciously given to each of us.

Happy Birthday to Jesus!

Joy to the world!