Saturday, December 24

“In the same region, shepherds were staying out in the fields and keeping

watch at night over their flock. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them

and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel

said to them, ‘Do not be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy

that will be for all the people: Today, a Savior, who is Messiah the Lord was born

for you in the city of David.” — Luke 2:8-11

Christmas Eve is such an exciting time! Families are gathered together, presents are piled high under the tree, and delicious goodies are displayed for all to eat. I love Christmas! But amidst all this excitement, there is a true joy to be found in the Christmas season. This is the joy of Jesus Christ. We can have joy in knowing that Jesus is alive and that He offers us salvation. We can also be joyful in knowing that Jesus loves and cares for us; He wants the very best for each of us.

We can all have joy in Jesus, bud did you know that we can also bring joy to Jesus? We can trust and believe in Him. We can walk in His truth and obey Him by studying God’s word, by spending time in prayer, and by telling others about Jesus. Furthermore, we can have a good attitude, a servant’s heart, and a kind spirit. All of these things bring joy to Jesus, and they can even bring joy to others. God does not want us to keep our joy in Him all to ourselves. Instead, He desires for us to share our joy with others.

Activity:

Sing Joy to the World together as a family. Talk about the meaning of this song and why Jesus is our ultimate joy.

Prayer:

Father, thank You for sending Your son, Jesus, to this earth. Help us to be joyful in all that we do and to share this joy with those around us. We love You and we praise You. Amen.

Merry Christmas!

Glen, Lisa and Jack Leathers