Christians have long celebrated with joy the birth of Jesus Christ. On Christmas Eve and the time following, we usually sing “Joy to the World” with exuberance in our worship. This year, some may sing this well-loved hymn in person, some may sing it in homes or with others on Zoom. How can we be joyful when all the world seems to be hurting?
We only need to look to the second phrase of the hymn and the words, “the Lord is Come.” Jesus Christ, our Lord, was born on Christmas Day. This can bring joy during these unprecedented times. Looking further at the words of this familiar hymn assures us that “the savior reigns” and “He rules the world with truth and grace.” The words continue, “He comes to make his blessings flow far as the curse is found.” No matter what befalls us, COVID-19, or some other calamity, we know Jesus was born in that manger, and he is our Messiah.
This message is excerpted from “Grinches and Scrooges Can’t Steal Your ‘Joy to the World,’” by Susan P. Harris from the December 28, 2020, blog of the Women of the ELCA. Today is Christmas Day.
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