Sunday, December 14, 2025

Gifts Of Joy

 Scripture: Luke 2:10-11 (ESV) – “And the angel said to them, ‘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 Savior, who is Christ the Lord’.” 

Message: Each year during the Christmas season, I am privileged to be part of Asbury's Angel Tree ministry event.  Our doors are opened to share love, food, music, and gifts with underprivileged children.  For many of these children, the joy on their faces when they receive a toy, a warm coat, or even some pizza and delicious cookies is indescribable.  What may seem small to some, becomes a treasure to them.  In those moments, their burdens are lifted, their hearts are lightened, and they are reminded that they are seen, valued, and loved.  The joy of receiving a gift goes beyond the object itself – it restores dignity, offers hope, and assures them that someone cares.

This joy is a reflection of the greater joy experienced when the downtrodden of the world received the ultimate gift – the birth of Jesus Christ.  On that first Christmas night in Bethlehem, God gave humanity His greatest gift, not wrapped in paper but in swaddling clothes.  For shepherds working in the fields, weary under the weight of life, the angels’ announcement brought them a joy they had never known before: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11).  In the same way a simple toy can fill a child’s heart with happiness and joy, and the presence of Jesus fills broken hearts with hope and peace.

Let us remember that, as the church extends grace through generosity, God extended His grace through the gift of His Son.  True giving reflects God’s heart, and true joy comes when love is received!

Prayer: Loving God, thank You for Jesus, the greatest gift our world has ever received.  May the joy experienced during this Advent season be felt throughout the year, and may we share the source of our joy, the Light of the World, with everyone, everywhere.  Amen.

Chris Kovic

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