The phrase that stands out for me in this very familiar Christmas passage is “and they were overwhelmed with joy” (Vs. 10b). Many times, in life we walk toward the promised goal with hope in our hearts. Coming across situations which try our faith, long journeys and other peoples’ fears, it is sometimes difficult to keep God’s call to our hearts aflame. It is truly the times of celebration that we need to experience and rejoice in. The beauty in the new life of the baby, Jesus, the gratefulness that comes from achieving a long sort after goal, the pleasure of knowing beyond doubt that God is in the world, these are the things that we all must celebrate with joy. Just as the wise men did so long ago. This is one message that I will take with me into the new year, to remember to honour the joys in life that real faith brings.
Matthew 2:1-12
