How foolish of me to try to express something that Peter described as "Joy Inexpressible." While our words may not adequately express the joy, God broke into human history to express joy so magnificently with the Christmas story. The birth of Christ was intended to bring joy to the world.

Recall the angelic message to those shepherds watching over their flocks one night. When an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terribly frightened. The angel said, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which shall be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ, the Lord. And this will be a sign for you; you will find a baby wrapped with cloths, and lying in a manger." And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased."

What a joyous chorus! However, apart form the news of Christ's birth there was no other message of joy. However, the good news of great joy was a reality 2000 years ago, and is today, for all who receive the good news and trust Jesus as the Savior He was born to be.

After Jesus' earthly life was over Peter wrote for us, "and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory."

You and I have not seen Jesus in human flesh as did the shepherd on the first Christmas. We can still love Him and believe in Him and greatly rejoice.

Some years ago I was with a group of Christian leaders dealing with the question: "What does the affection of joy look like in the real world in which we live?"

Presence of God, inner assurance that I belong to God, what I possess because I am possessed by God, the joy of the Lord is my strength, harmony with the will of God, assurance, I'm not in this alone, discerning of Christ's presence and purpose.

Hebrews 12:2 "Goal that empowers, fixing eyes on Jesus … who for the joy set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

The ultimate joy for us - for which purpose Jesus broke into human history came at a great cost, the cost of His life - which demonstrated beyond a doubt - His great love you and me.

How better can we describe this than with the words Peter used.

This is the joy of which heaven and nature sang on that first Christmas. Jesus came to bring joy to the world. But the world does not know real joy apart from receiving Jesus as personal Lord and King. Prepare room in your heart this Christmas and everyday and experience joy inexpressible!

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