UNDAY LESSON, 12/11/22
THE HEART OF CHRISTMAS: JOY
Luke 2:10-12 and Philippians 4:4-8
This Sunday will be the third lesson in our Christmas series, “THE HEART OF CHRISTMAS”.
Thus far we have seen that at the heart of Christmas is HOPE and PEACE that is ours because of the coming of Christ. And this Sunday we will take a look once again at the JOY that fills our hearts because of the gift of God’s Son to us.
The Apostle Paul writes of this JOY in a letter to his brothers and sisters in Philippi while under house arrest, chained to two Roman guards around the clock. At the conclusion of his letter, the apostle exhorts his readers to “Rejoice always!” He, then, reveals how to maintain our joy in Christ during the most difficult of circumstances.
If you are struggling to find joy this Christmas season for whatever reason, this lesson is for you. Come join us Sunday as we open our hearts to God’s gift of JOY.
LUKE 2:10-12
10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
PHILIPPIANS 4:4-8
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
