But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” (Luke 2:10 NIV)
On a first listen, “Joy to the World” sounds like an insensitive song title for those who are broken and hurting in our world (which is every one in the world!). I mean, really, “Joy to the World?” But, thankfully, the song goes on to answer the question of why we can still have joy while in this world, “Joy to the world, the Lord is come!” The same joy that was announced by angels on that first Christmas to lowly and terrified shepherds as they guarded their sheep at night. God isn’t oblivious to our pain and sorrow. He comes to us in our brokenness and pain and offers us the gift of His joy. In fact, His light shines the brightest on the darkest night, and we hear Him speak joy over us. I know because I’ve been there. 2022 is not a year on which I will look back with absolute pleasure. But if there’s anything I’ve learned is that I can still have joy regardless of my circumstances because of Jesus. He is the reason for the season. He is the reason I rejoice. So as I listen to the words of “Joy to the World,” I’m going to receive His joy and allow it to overflow to those around me.
Joy to the world, the Lord is come!
Isaac Watts, “Joy to the World”
Let earth receive her King;
let ev’ry heart prepare him room.
Rising with the Son 