Gospel of great joy

I have been struck afresh this year with the Angels message to the Shepherds outside Bethlehem.  I guess it is another Christmas wrapping that clouds the real message and purpose of Christmas.  The angels tell these terrified shepherds

'Fear not, for behold, i bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour who is Christ the Lord'  Luke 2v10

This is still, even for people whose Christmas is clothed in gifts, tinzel, booze and parties, a socially acceptable religious statement that gets under the radar of most people.  Where, during the rest of the year any mention of faith in Jesus Christ, or the need of a Saviour is repulsive to many, at Christmas it somehow gets through.  It is easy for us, as Christians to play on that opportunity - and rightly so.  Be prepared to take every opportunity.  But opportunity to do what?

The thing is, the angels don't just bring any good news.  It is the gospel (literally good news) that they bring and this gospel is of great joy, for all people.  Reflecting on this leads me to 2 observations.

Firstly, how central is the gospel in our thoughts at theis time of year.  i don't mean 'are we seizing the opportunity to share the message of Jesus with people - most churches will be keyed up on that one.  No, the gospel is the arrival of God.  This is the good news.  Christ the Lord is the good news.  Is this season a time where Christ the Lord is at the centre of your mind, heart and affections.  Which leads me to my second observation.

It is great joy!  Over the next couple of weeks, many things will be fun, enjoyable and worth doing.  But what will be our joy?  THe coming of Jesus Christ is great joy!  How are you going to enjoy him over the coming weeks? How is my Christmas going to be marked by Joy in coming of Christ Jesus, rather than just family, friends, food, twinkle, twinkle Christmas Star and some other good things.

I want more than that this year.  I want this year to genuinely be about the good news, the same good news we celebrate and share (hopefully) the rest of the year!