Session 26

Joy to the World, The Lord has Come!

From Join the Chorus!

The Christmas Story - Luke 2:1-20

Luke 2 relays the events of Christmas Day, two millennia past, when prophecies were fulfilled and God’s redemptive plan unfolded as the angels declared, “For unto you is born this day… a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” 

“Fear Not!” 

When confronted with the angel announcement, the shepherds feared and trembled. God’s awe-inspiring and fear-inducing might was on display in that audacious moment. His presence and plans can be terrifying. Even now, we are reminded of His magnificent glory. But “Fear not!” for angel armies deliver Good News. 

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”  

The shepherds heard an unfathomable story. God, clothed in humanity, came to free us from our sins and bring peace to the world. Our only response to this earth-quaking news should be to join with the angels and shepherds to praise him, singing “Glory to God in the highest!” Like the shepherds, we must courageously tell others of this baffling, life-changing truth.

“And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them.” 

Those who heard the great news “wondered” at its beauty. Mary recognized the magnitude of this moment and “treasured” it in her heart. Let us forever wonder at the treasure of Jesus’ marvelous birth. Let us rejoice! Dance! Sing! Let us be joyful, for God sent His only Son Jesus into the world so that we might delight in Him. Sing for joy because on this day, two thousand years ago, the ultimate gift came wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger. 

Joy to the world; the Lord is come;

Let Earth receive her King;

Let ev’ry Heart prepare him room,

And Heav’n and nature sing.

Isaac Watts. Joy to the World. 1719.