God Notions

Luke 2:10

 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.

I have been thinking a lot about joy this week. It was hiding. It really wasn’t, I had been looking in the wrong places, to the wrong things, to the wrong people. 

Loss can hold us captive, the loss of a spouse, our job, a treasured family heirloom, the loss of a friend, the lost life of a child or parent or pet.

Where can joy be found in any of this? It cannot.

The shepherds went to find the good news and what they found was a baby just as the angel of the Lord had told them. 

Mary pondered the things the Lord had told her would come upon her baby in her heart.

I’m not so sure Mary had joy.

I find it hard to let go of my plans. I have good plans. This is where I have to cling to what I know…to whom I know.

God’s plans are always bigger than mine, his understanding is not mine, and his wisdom is infinite mine is not.

His plan is for all people.

His plan is for peace and reconciliation.

His plan is for loss to be no more. Death is dead and has no place in His plan.

The shepherds found just what they were told they would find. 

Mary experienced just what she was told she would experience.

I can find Joy in the One who keeps His promises, through loss, uncertainty, and loneliness. I have found over and over God is faithful and wise, loving and capable.

I find comfort knowing I don’t have to fight against the things of this world that try to steal my peace, my joy, my life. I just have to remain with Him who has conquered this enemy. 

His plan is for life, life eternal, Life Everlasting. 

His plan is in the gift of the baby Jesus, the gift of Himself, humbled and wrapped in Love.

Immanuel, God with us.