iBelieve - Christian Women Inspirational Devotionals

A Prayer for Joy at the Savior’s Birth
By Keneesha Saunders-Liddie

Bible Reading:
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

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I can remember how I felt at the birth of both of my babies; it was a relief that they were finally here, and happiness as their lungs worked and they started to cry. Every time I think of the best time of the year, I’m so thankful that Jesus came. I may not walk around with a smile all the time, but on the inside, there is joy. In my heart, there rings a melody of joy to the earth, the Lord has come.

The best news of hope is the message of our Savior’s birth. A birth that was miraculous and incredulous. A birth that fulfilled Old Testament prophecies. This birth has brought and continues to bring great joy to all people. I think of the joy the wise men experienced as they followed the star to where Jesus lay. I think of Simeon and Anna, who went through their life waiting to see the Messiah, and the shepherds rejoicing at our Savior’s birth. What a joyous occasion to know that the babe that lay in the manger wasn’t just an ordinary baby, but Emmanuel. We may not know the exact time and date of the birth of our Savior, but we know that he came, and that is enough.

Christmas is the time for that celebration, even if December 25th is not his actual birthday. So, don’t be afraid to celebrate our Savior's birth. His birth brought good news to the world and showed us that God had us in mind as He sent His Son. The crucifixion is important, of course, but Jesus couldn’t go to Calvary if he had never come to earth as a babe as the prophets predicted. The angel tells us in our verse for today that this good news will bring joy to all people. This is for you and for me, whether Jew or Gentile. Jesus came down in human flesh as a baby. Love came down to bring us hope and joy.

I like the word joy because it is an inward expression. I don’t have to be happy to have joy. I can be experiencing pain, grief, and sorrow, and still have joy bubbling up inside my heart. I’m so thankful that Jesus came. Are you? I have joy at the wonder of the Savior’s birth many, many years ago. This Christmas, as I reflect on all the blessings my God provides, I will rejoice with joy at Jesus’ birth, whether I'm going for a walk, pumping my gas, eating a meal, counting my blessings, or even paying my bills. I will remember with joy that my Savior came down to earth as a babe and brought salvation and great joy to the whole world.

Let’s Pray:

Most Gracious God and Father, what an awesome God you are. There is no one like you, there is none beside you, and I’m so glad I get to worship you. I’m filled with joy as I celebrate this Christmas season and as I reflect on your birth. I think of the humility you showed in being the God of this universe and all created beings, yet choosing to send your Son to Earth for us. All because of love and to save a wretched soul like me.

Thank you for the good news that extends to the whole world. The good news brings joy and peace to my heart, dear Lord. Thank you for your sacrifice. Thank you for giving me hope and great joy. Thank you for choosing this path of sharing our suffering. It is because of you that I can experience life after death. My God, you are awesome, and I plan to spend this Christmas worshipping you for all you’ve done.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Discuss today’s devotional with others in the Your Daily Prayer thread on the Crosswalk Forum.

Photo Credit: Getty Images/kmevegas

Keneesha Saunders-Liddie is a wife and mom. She is an avid reader of wholesome romance novels and a writer. She has a Master's in Biblical Counseling as she believes in the sufficiency of Scripture. As a pastor’s kid, she fell in love with the way Jesus loved her at an early age and wants to encourage others to live for Him through her words. You can find more musings from her at keneeshaliddie.com

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