Increasing the Level of Your Joy This Christmas

SCRIPTURE: Luke 2:1-14, Matthew 2:1-12

Introduction
As Christmas approaches, it’s a time to reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world, and the great joy His arrival brings to all humanity. But beyond the festivities and celebrations, Christmas offers a deeper opportunity to experience joy in a more meaningful way. This joy is not only rooted in the
material gifts we give and receive but also in the spiritual gifts we can offer to others and to God. This Christmas, let us explore how we can increase the level of our joy by giving the gift of love, service, and forgiveness, as exemplified in the teachings and actions of Jesus Christ.

Key Points:
1. The Gift of Love:
a) God’s Love for Us:  John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
-God’s love is the foundation of Christmas—He gave His Son to bring joy and salvation

b) Loving One Another:
– Jesus taught us to love one another as He has loved us (John 13:34).
– True joy comes from showing love to others—through kindness, compassion, and selfless acts.

c) Increasing Joy Through Love

The more love we give, the greater our joy becomes. Love enriches our lives and brings us closer to God’s purpose.

2. The Gift of Service:

a) Jesus’ Example of Service:
– Matthew 20:28: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.”
-Jesus demonstrated the importance of serving others through His life and actions.
b)Serving Others Brings Joy:
-Luke 6:38 : “Give, and it will be given to you.”
-Acts of service, whether big or small, create a ripple effect of goodwill and joy.
c)Joy Through Giving:
Serving others not only helps those in need but also fills our hearts with joy. Service brings fulfillment and connection to others.

3. The Gift of Forgiveness:
a) Jesus’ Teachings on Forgiveness:
-Matthew 6:14-15: “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”
-Jesus emphasizes the importance of forgiveness for personal peace and joy.
b)Forgiveness Frees Us:
Letting go of grudges and resentment allows us to experience peace and emotional freedom.

c)Joy in Forgiveness:
-Holding onto anger diminishes joy, but choosing forgiveness leads to inner peace and a heart full of joy.
4. The Example of the Wise Men:
a) Giving Our Best:
– The Wise Men gave gold, frankincense, and myrrh to honor Jesus (Matthew 2:11).
– Their gifts symbolized the kingly, priestly, and sacrificial roles of Jesus.
b) Offering Our Best to Jesus:
– We are called to give our best— not only in material gifts but in our hearts, actions, and attitudes.
c) Joy in Giving:
– When we give our best to Jesus and others, it brings joy into our hearts and strengthens our relationship with God.

Conclusion
Increasing the level of our joy this Christmas isn’t just about receiving; it’s about giving: giving love, service, and forgiveness in the true spirit of the season. As we
celebrate the birth of Christ, let us remember His example of love, His call to serve, and His teaching on forgiveness. By embracing these gifts, we can experience
a joy that is both deep and lasting. May your Christmas be filled with abundant joy as you give from the heart ,serve others with compassion, and forgive with grace.
Remember, as we give, it will be given back to us in ways we cannot imagine. Luke 6:38: “Give, and it will be given to you.” May this joy fill your hearts and homes this Christmas season.