Luke 2

“I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you” (10). The Messiah’s birth, although prophesied, still came in a way and time no one expected. Simeon and Anna recognized and rejoiced at God’s long-awaited salvation, but many (including Jesus’ parents, 49) were astonished at how their ideas about God were turned upside-down. The “thoughts of many hearts” were revealed (35).

How we respond to the gift of Jesus changes everything. When we lay down our pride and receive him as Messiah, the Lord, giving him the right to take charge of our lives, we experience “great joy” (10-11).