Joy to the World!

From school plays and caroling concerts, “Joy to the World” is a Christmas staple. Did you know that “Joy to the World” was not meant to be a Christmas song? There’s no mention of shepherds and wise men or Bethlehem and angels singing. Instead, its lyrics are a jubilant paraphrase of Psalm 98—a psalm of David about salvation and praise.

“Joy to the World” is not about Christ’s birth, but rather His return.

“Joy to the World, the Lord has come! Let earth receive her King!”

Yes, Christmas is a time for us to rejoice and celebrate the birth of Christ. But, the greatest gift God offered through His son was not only His life. It was His death, resurrection and the salvation offered to us as a result. That’s what “Joy to the World” is meant to remind us of.

Jesus’ birth was the start of His mission to save the world. And He will return again someday to claim complete victory over evil, suffering, and fear. This assurance should transform our short bouts of happiness into lasting joy. This is the best and easiest time of year to discuss Who Christ is and what He has done for us. I would like to challenge you to make your gift to Jesus, as it is His birthday we celebrate, a purposeful, intentional mission to share Him with at least one stranger.

The Holy Spirit will do the rest.

Let every heart prepare Him room.

Maybe you have concerns about what’s happening in your life and the evil in the world. Or maybe you’ve gotten so stressed with life, you are thinking, you do not have time for this. But, if we were to set our problems and responsibilities next to the power and promise of Christ’s return—it all pales in comparison. And that is praiseworthy! 1 Peter 1:8-9 says, “Though you do not now see Him, you believe in Him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.”

This Christmas, transform your thoughts from stressed to happy, from happy to joyous, by resting in the fact that you are loved and forgiven by a great God. A Father that sent His only son to die that we may live!

Go tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere.
Go tell it on the mountain, Our Jesus Christ is born.

When I was a seeker, I sought both night and day.
I asked the Lord to help me, and he showed me the way.

Go tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere.
Go tell it on the mountain, Our Jesus Christ is born.

He made me a watchman, upon a city wall.
And if I am a Christian, I am the least of all.

Go tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere.
Go tell it on the mountain, Our Jesus Christ is born!

Share the Joy!!

from BillyGraham.org

with additions by Jacquie Johnson