Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it. (Ps. 96:11)
Many of us share common Christmas memories from childhood: pleasant holidays spent playing with friends, visits from family members, and beautiful gifts received from parents. These remembrances have left their impact and even now bring joy. Often, we reminisce about treasured Christmas carols—“Joy to the World” being among the most popular.
The last three verses of Psalm 96 make up the backbone of “Joy to the World” (Ps. 96:11–13). The writer invites the whole creation to rejoice before the Lord. Never has a birth announcement and the events surrounding it come to dispel fear and replace it with such great joy. The coming of our Savior brought joy into the world and in the heavens. With the same injunction, “Do not be afraid,” the angel reassured Mary (see Luke 1:30), Joseph (see Matt. 1:20), Zechariah (see Luke 1:13), and the shepherds (see Luke 2:10) in their fear.
As we prepare to commemorate the coming of the Son of God on earth, the time comes to remember that he came to bring joy, serenity, and salvation to a saddened, troubled, and lost world. Our part is to be thankful for the greatest gift God has given to us and share it with the world.
No matter what may come your way, always rejoice before the Lord.
Handy Calixte is an ordained pastor of L’Église Wesleyenne d’Haïti and likes writing about various biblical topics. He and his wife, Johane, have three children.
© 2021 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
