Ever notice how Christmas amplifies everything? The good becomes great while the hard things feel harder. But Christmas doesn’t have to be either great or hard. There’s a hope that overcomes anything. On a silent night, a light broke through the darkness. The world watched in awe as love stepped in. Jesus changed everything—including the life that’s possible for us. We can experience the wonder of our Savior. Together we’ll reflect on the hope, peace, joy, and love found in JESUS!

Definition: Joy is a feeling of good pleasure & happiness that is dependent on who Jesus is rather than on who we are or what is happening around us.

Joy Often Comes:

1.  Suddenly

“There were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock at night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood near them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them… And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God.” Luke 2:8-9,13

“I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord… Suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God… So they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger… The shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen.” Luke 2:10-19

“There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.” Luke 15:7

2.  Thoughtfully

“We exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope.” Romans 5:3-4

“I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” Romans 8:18

“Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” James 1:2-3 NKJV

3.  Faithfully

“Do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34

* All scriptures are from the NAS unless otherwise noted