Tuesday, December 14, 2021

The Promise of Joy

 

We live in a world full of fear – politically, socially, economically, and more! Fear inclines us to hunker down, isolate, and stick with our own tribe. The Bible’s antidote for fear isn’t bravery. It’s joy. God’s presence in our midst quiets our fears and brings us joy (Zephaniah 3:14-20). Sadly, Old Testament Israel often tried to keep God’s joyful presence to themselves. They mistakenly believed God’s good news was only for those religiously aligned. Christ’s birth shatters any notion that God’s joyful presence can be possessed or contained. As the angel announced to the shepherds, Christ’s birth is “Good news of great joy that will be for all the people.” If you missed yesterday’s sermon, you can listen to it here or watch the entire service here.


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