For many, undiluted and true joy is missing in their lives”¦is this true of you? There is much to be mournful and worried about: the economy,

Politician”™s powers, job losses, and the lists go on.

The dictionary defines joy as: 1. A condition or feeling of high pleasure or delight; happiness; gladness.

How can this be in today”™s circumstances? I believe the answer is in God”™s word, the Holy Bible.

(NASB) Luke 2:10 “But the angel said to them, “˜Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people;”

The terror-stricken shepherds were immediately given the reassurance of “˜Do not be afraid.”™

Look at the verse again”¦”good news of great joy which will be for all the people.” This includes Arabs, Europeans, Asians, Indians, the peoples of the Americas, for all people.

What good news has recently brought you “˜great joy”™? For some it may be the national championship for the University of Florida. For others it may be the election of President Obama. Or perhaps, a good grade on a tough test. Yet, some may have no joy over anything.

But God has plans for anyone who will listen and respond to His message.

(NASB) Luke 2:11 “for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

This was the “good news of great joy which will be for all the people.”

True and lasting joy (high pleasure, delight, happiness, gladness) is the message of the birth of the Savior, Jesus Christ. He is the promised Messiah, God Himself Who has become Man. Immanuel ~ God with us.

(NASB) Micah 5:2 “but as for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Too little to be among the clans of Judah, From you One will go forth for Me to be ruler in Israel. His goings forth are from long ago, From the days of eternity.”

You have been given this message, this “˜good news of great joy”™, Jesus Christ has been born, how will you now respond?