Wednesday, December 2, 2020
JOY
SCRIPTURE READING: 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.” Luke 2:8-10
That great joy was the very first CHRISTmas gift – given with love, to us by God.
As a child that joy was looking through the Sears Wish Book with my sisters and the anticipation of a special gift on Christmas morning. As a young adult the joy was finding that special gift to give to a family member or friend. Then as a parent it was the joy of seeing my children when they received that special gift.
Through all of these Christmases – as a child, young adult and parent – the real meaning of Christmas was always part of our celebration. The story of Jesus’ birth, the special placing of the manger and all of the figures, Church, Christmas carols, getting together with family – these were all things that put JOY into Christmas.
PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, help us to always remember why we celebrate Christmas by giving gifts. Thank You for the greatest gift – Your Son, Jesus, given to all with love. Amen.
Ruth Bowyer
