Let’s face it: the holidays are filled with joy—but it’s not always the deep, meaningful kind of joy we’d expect. Between the shopping madness, the search for the perfect gift (which we all know ends in something that was "on sale"), and trying to avoid awkward family dinners, we might end up feeling more stressed than joyful. Who else has found themselves at the Christmas dinner table wondering how many more Christmas cookies they can sneak before Aunt Linda asks if you’re “eating your feelings”?

But here’s the thing: the joy we celebrate at Christmas isn’t just about avoiding family drama or getting the last toy on the shelf. It’s about something way deeper, and definitely more lasting. True joy doesn’t come from perfect presents or the perfect holiday moments. It comes from the arrival of the perfect gift: Jesus. And let’s be honest, He’s the only one who can bring us joy that lasts longer than our candy cane addiction!

When the angel showed up to the shepherds on that first Christmas night, he said, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people" (Luke 2:10). Notice it says “great joy for all people,” not just the ones who get their Christmas shopping done early (seriously, who are these people?). This joy isn’t based on how perfect our Christmas tree looks or how many socks we can find that actually match. It’s about the incredible truth that the Savior of the world—Jesus—has come. And that, my friends, is the kind of joy that sticks around, no matter how chaotic the holiday season gets.

Now, let’s pause for a second and think about what this joy really is. It’s not just happiness that comes and goes with the ups and downs of life. It’s a joy rooted in the truth of who Jesus is and what He’s done. The joy of Christmas isn’t about what we get, but what we’ve already been given—Jesus, our Savior. That’s the kind of joy that doesn’t fade when the Christmas cookies run out or when the holiday bills start rolling in (yikes).

In fact, joy is one of the key reasons Jesus came to earth in the first place. It’s the joy of knowing that, because of Him, we are no longer separated from God. It’s the joy of knowing that we have hope, even when everything else seems to be falling apart. It’s the joy of knowing that our eternity is secure because of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.

And here’s the kicker—this joy is not just for some people, it’s for all people. Whether you’ve been on the “nice list” this year or spent a little too much time with the “grinchy” side of your personality, this joy is for you. Jesus didn’t come just for those who’ve got it all together (because let’s face it, none of us do). He came for everyone, including those of us who find ourselves asking how many more times we have to hear “Last Christmas” on the radio.

The joy we celebrate in Advent isn’t dependent on how well we’ve done or how perfect our celebrations are. It’s about what Jesus has done for us. It’s about the Savior coming into the world to bring us joy that lasts beyond the season—and beyond the next batch of Christmas cookies.

Scripture Reading
Prophecy: Luke 2:10-11
Fulfilled: Matthew 1:21-23
Reflection:
Think about the joy you’ve experienced this Christmas season, or in past Christmas seasons. Has it come from things like the perfect gift or an Instagram-worthy holiday dinner? Or is it the deeper, lasting joy that comes from knowing Jesus is with you in every moment—whether it's good or stressful, calm or chaotic? Stop and reflect on the things in the past few years that brought real joy.

This week, take a minute to remember the real reason we celebrate: Great joy for all the people—and that includes you!

Reflect on the promise of a prophet raised up by God to guide His people and the affirmation of Jesus as that prophet, emphasizing the importance of listening to Him for our salvation.
Prophecy: Deuteronomy 18:15
Fulfilled: Acts 3:22-23

Contemplate the servant role of Christ, chosen and upheld by God, who brings hope to the nations and fulfills the prophecy of compassion and justice through His life and ministry..
Prophecy: Isaiah 42:1
Fulfilled: Matthew 12:17-21

Reflect on the fulfillment of the prophecy that speaks of a messenger preparing the way, recognizing Christ as that messenger who brings redemption and hope to the people.
Prophecy: Malachi 3:1
Fulfilled: Matthew 11:10

Meditate on the significance of God's call for His Son from Egypt, highlighting the fulfillment of prophecy as Jesus' journey exemplifies His role in God’s plan for salvation and deliverance.
Prophecy: Hosea 11:1
Fulfilled: Matthew 2:14-15

Contemplate the anointing of Christ to bring good news, proclaim freedom, and heal the brokenhearted, recognizing His fulfillment of prophecy and the transformative power of His mission.
Prophecy: Isaiah 61:1-2
Fulfilled: Luke 4:18-21