We’ve talked about Jesus as the Hope of Christmas and the Peace of Christmas. But today, let’s take a closer look at Jesus our Savior, the Joy of Christmas.
Because the Christmas story is so familiar to most of us, it’s easy for us to lose its wonder and mystery. Sometimes I forget there are millions who have still never heard or believed the true Christmas message of joy that our Savior brings.
As you think about what that name means, Savior, let this prayer resonate with you. Listen to the truths, and then pray your own prayer to Him.
Lord, I can only imagine the shepherd’s fear that night as Your angel surrounded them in full 3D technicolor, bearing the good news for which so many had waited. For centuries, prophets foretold Your coming.
A simple birth. A crude manger. An extravagant plan, conceived in Your mind long ago because of Your love for us.
Jesus, Savior, You Were Born to Die
Jesus, as our Savior, You were born to die. You entered the world to rescue people lost in their own suffering and confusion. Jesus, You came to open blind eyes, long closed to the truth. You arrived to free prisoners whose hearts were hardened by hatred.
Your announcement was delivered to simple shepherds, tending their flocks. In the midst of their dark night, Your light appeared! What a beautiful chorus that must have been when a huge host of angels burst on the scene singing praises to God for this long-awaited event.
You Are Jesus, Savior of the World
Jesus, You are the Savior of the world, and Your birth, death, and resurrection built the bridge to an eternity with God when we believe in You for our salvation. There is no other name–no other name but Yours that can usher us into the eternal presence of the Almighty!
Lord, thank You! Your plan–Your good news–is for all. That includes me, too! Thank you that in our selfishness and sinful ways, You saw something worth saving. You are my personal Savior, continually freeing me from strongholds that threaten my fellowship with You.
What Kind of Love Is This?
Long ago, You walked into my prison of darkness and broke the chains that had bound me for years. As long as I live, I will never understand Your love. What kind of love accepts you at your worst and pursues you to give you His best? Can I do anything but offer my praise and thanks to you this Christmas–and every day of my life?
Lord, help us to see You this Christmas with as much wonder as the shepherds did that night so long ago. Keep the joyful message of salvation alive in our hearts, just as we are kept by You. No one can sever our relationship once we belong to You!
We Celebrate You As Jesus, Our Savior, the Joy of Christmas
This Christmas, and the rest of our days, we celebrate You as the Savior of the world.
And there were shepherds 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 round about 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. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger,” (Luke 2:8-12, NIV).
If you missed the first two Advent blog posts, you can read the Hope of Christmas and the Peace of Christmas. Also, you might enjoy this post about a way you can make a difference this Christmas.
It’s Your Turn
What does knowing Jesus, our Savior and Joy of Christmas, mean to you? Why do you need His joy this Christmas? What will you do to share the joy He brings with others who need to know Him? I’d love to hear from you anytime. You can always write me through my contact page. Just fill out the basic name and address info, and then it will come to me. Your name or info is not shared with anyone.
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