"And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.' "
-Luke 2: 8-12

Christmas Joy

When was the last time that you received 'good news of great joy?' (Luke 2: 10) That is how the angel describes Jesus' birth to the shepherds. During the Christmas season we get to celebrate the birth of our Savior! What joy that should bring too our hearts. I love the Christmas story as it is told in the Book of Luke. Can you imagine what it would have been like to be one of those shepherds in the field that eventful night? The angel appears (which would have been amazing on its own) and is later joined by a 'great company of the heavenly host' (Luke 2: 13) praising God. What an incredible experience that must have been! We were not there for that awesome event but every year we do get to relive the joy of the great news that was brought to the shepherds (and all people) that night.

I pray that the joy of the Christmas season is filling your heart. This world works hard to take that joy from us. I know that this time of year can be very busy. In the midst of all the 'business' remember that in the end all that matters is what God through His Son Jesus did for us on the night long ago. Take some time to reflect on that and smile :). Let the joy of God's love fill your heart this Christmas and then go and share that Christmas Joy with someone else.

I pray all is well with you this Christmas season. Please let me know if you have any prayer concerns or praises. Have a Merry Christmas and don't forget to smile :), the Lord loves you!

In Christ,

Shan D. Hartsough

"Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.' "
-Luke 2: 13-14

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