I remember sitting in the hospital room in Round Rock when Landon and Logan were born. At each birth we made the birth announcement via text message and Facebook. We reported all the important details: name, weight, length and the health status of mother and baby. Family and friends came to hold our boys, love on us and shower us with gifts. Those are joyous memories.
These memories remind me of the greatest birth announcement in history:
"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. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:10-12
The angel is heralding the good news for all mankind. Verse ten is comforting because we reminded not to fear. In Star Wars Episode One, Jedi Yoda states, "Fear leads to anger; anger leads to hate; hate leads to suffering." Fear grabs us and holds us hostage. We can respond emotionally a few ways: stress, anger, and spite. We should not fear because according to God's plan, Jesus' blood will end our suffering.
"I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart Where? Down in my heart! Where?Down in my heart! I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart Down in my heart to stay."
Jesus brings you and I joy. Joy can be defined as, “a feeling of great pleasure and happiness.” He is the greatest gift and the angel wanted those who heard this proclamation to know we can find our joy in Jesus Christ. Many things can bring you and I temporary happiness: a new car, the latest CD, a brand new TV show, a girlfriend or boyfriend, but only the true joy comes from Jesus. The amazing thing about this proclamation is this joy is not exclusive - it is a joy that all people have access to. When we believe in Jesus, we become recipients of the joy from Jesus, we also get the opportunity to share the greatest birth announcement through our lives to all those who have not heard.
The birth announcement includes Jesus humble beginning. Scripture tells you and I the, “baby [was] wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” He wasn’t born in a ornate palace or to a wealthy family, but a righteous woman, Mary. Considering humility, you and I can become humble in our walk with Christ and more effectively serve our neighbors - not for reward or self gain, but for His glory.
During this time of Advent, may we reflect upon the greatest birth announcement in history - the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior. He offers you and I the greatest gift we could receive, salvation from our sins. Have you heard the news? Have you shared the news? Tell someone this season about Jesus and what He has done for you. Blessings and Merry Christmas.
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