The Joy That Jesus Brings

Jesus was born into a very joyless world, and it was anything but peaceful.

For most people, living in the time of Roman rule was a matter of survival with no religious freedom, human rights and talk about taxes! Criminals were crucified for all to see.

That world really needed a little joy and peace for sure. Would I be stretching the truth to say that the world we live in today also needs the joy and peace that Jesus brings? I believe, behind all the Christmas glitter, Christian plays and holy services, there is a great need for the real joy that Jesus brings. Theme Thought: The joy that Jesus brings is the joy of his Salvation.

While examining the details of the Christmas story of Jesus’ birth, I noticed that everyone who was immediately involved experienced some form of fear at first, followed by great joy. Though there may be some fear and intimidation, whenever we encounter Jesus, there is always great joy.

For example, Zachariah the priest, while executing his duties before God, encountered an angel near the altar of incense. “When Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said to him, fear not, for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elizabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth. And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God.” (Luke 1:11-16) Mary, the mother of Jesus, also encountered an angel. “And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying…. And the angel said unto her, fear not, Mary…. Thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. (Luke 1:29-31) After an explanation, Mary exclaimed, “And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior.” (Luke 1: 47) Joseph was fearful and was told in a dream, “Fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus. for he shall save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:20,21) The joy that Jesus brings is the joy of his Salvation.

This joy can be found in unusual places as well. “When Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost: For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy.” (Luke 1:41-44)

Fear continues to be turned into joy after the birth of Jesus. “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: And they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:8-11) Whenever we encounter the good news of Jesus’ coming, there is great joy, for the joy that Jesus brings is the joy of His Salvation.

So, what will we do with the good news of Jesus this Christmas? “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” gives us a suggestion. “Mild He lays His glory by, Born that man no more may die, Born to raise the sons of earth, Born to give them second birth.” There are many, young and old alike, who misunderstand or are afraid of what the Bible describes as being born again.

We have seen in our Bible study, that there may be some fear of the unknown at first, but there is always great joy in believing and receiving Jesus in our life. Many people feel like they will be giving up something, when they let Christ into their life, but there is only an exchange of our loneliness, worry, guilt, and helplessness, for fellowship, hope, peace of mind, confidence and great joy.

Years ago, when they first started putting chimes in clocks, a local jeweler advertised this in bold letters at his shop, “Clocks Converted to Chiming!” I believe that every man, woman and child need the joy that comes from the converting gift of Salvation through Jesus Christ, so they can chime for Him! How about you and I?

A Christmas hymn appeals to us, “O Holy Child of Bethlehem, Descend to us, we pray; Cast out our sin and enter in, Be born in us today. We hear the Christmas angels; the glad tidings tell - Oh, come to us, abide in us, Our Lord Immanuel!” Have a Merry and Joyful Christmas!

Retired Pastor Jim Nichols – Sidney Seventh-day Adventist Church