And shepherds were living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” Luke 2:8-11 The angel brought the shepherds good news. The angel proclaimed to them that the Messiah had been born. This was a joyful night. What exactly is this great…
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The Presence of Jesus Brings Joy
“You reveal the path of life to me; in Your presence is abundant joy; in Your right hand are eternal pleasures.” Psalms 16:11 There are two upcoming weddings in our immediate family! There is excitement, stress, and joy all around. I hope that both sets of couples will take the time to enjoy the process of coming together. That they have the joy in each other’s presence like the day their dad and I got married. One is happening this month and the other next summer. I am getting two lovely daughter in laws. They are taking their single lives and are joining together with their spouse. Marriage is…
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Our Shepherds Joy
Don’t be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Luke 2:10 How do you handle disappointments? Or how do you handle unmet expectations? Did you know that expectations can be an idol?? Did you know that joy is not based on your circumstances but in the choice to live in God’s extravagant grace? The first Christmas had both unmet expectations and unexpected circumstances. What were Joseph and Mary’s unmet expectations and unexpected circumstances? I don’t think they expected baby Jesus to be born so far from their home! Or how about the manger?? What mother would want to…