In the first chapter of the Gospel of Luke, we read the story of Jesus’ mother, Mary (Luke 1:26-56). Mary's faithfulness and joy is a powerful witness. Yet, the angel’s message must have been frightening.
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What would it have been like to have to tell Joseph or her parents what the angel said? I often wonder if she went to Elizabeth as an escape, to "hide" her pregnancy so as not to bring shame to her parents.
Whatever fear she may have felt, Mary answered the angel, "Here am I, the servant of the Lord" (Luke 1:38). She submits to God’s will for her to be the chosen mother of God. Her song, called the Magnificat, begins with, “My soul magnifies the Lord” (Luke 1:46-55). It is a song of joy at being chosen and it could very well be the first Christmas song.
Many Christmas carols bring joy, which isn't the same as happiness. When things look bleak, or we encounter hard times, can we also sing a hymn of joy?
The prophet Isaiah foretells a time when “the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away” (Isaiah 35:10).
Many stores are playing Christmas music, we sing at church and maybe even listen to Christmas music at home or in the car. Whether you are having a hard time finding the Christmas spirit, or if you are full of joy already, listen for the joy in the music.
Prayer: Thank you, God, for the joy of the holiday season. We know why we celebrate and want to keep the focus on you. Fill our hearts with joy so that we cannot help but share our joy with others. Amen.
Activity: Make an angel
In the Christmas story, the angels sing when they learn about Jesus’ birth. The angels we see as part of Christmas decorations are there to remind you of the joy of Christmas!
Make an angel using a paper plate with handprints as wings. If you are not able to create an angel, buy an angel, or find an angel decoration you already have and place it where you’ll see it each day.
Handprint angel
You will need:
Paper plate
Paper
Scissors
Glue
Markers or crayons
- Color the paper plate. This is the angel’s body.
- Fold down the right and left sides of plate. This will be the angel’s gown.
- Cut out a circle of paper for the angel’s head and draw a face and hair. Glue it to the top of the plate. (Bonus idea: Use a picture of yourself and cut out your face so that YOU are the angel!)
- Trace hands on paper and cut them out. Glue the handprints to the back of the plate for the wings.
