Good News of Great Joy
December 24, 2008 by pastorstjohn
Filed under Weekly Words
Dear friend,
Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
Perhaps you have heard about the little boy who was singing the famous Christmas hymn, Silent Night. He ended the song with the words, “Sleep in heavenly beans.” His sister, who was close by, quickly corrected him. “Not beans - peas!”
This may be a funny little story. However, many people are like these children. As they celebrate this time of year, they have no idea why. “What was this supposed to be? What is the meaning of this celebration? Is it food, family, time off work, presents?” Even many Christians have only a muted or misguided grasp. They knew the words before, but now they can’t put them together correctly. Somehow the great reality is lost and forgotten or replaced with something less worthy.
Friend, this Christmas day, be sure to remember the words:
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.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” (Luke 2:10-14)
Praise be to God for sending His Son Jesus into the world. Whoever believes in Him “shall not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).
Your servant,
Stephen
Rev. Stephen St. John
Pastor/Elder
