Joy...Lent Photo-a-Day

Joy…An interesting word to consider during Lent.  Lent was always relayed to me as a time to truly focus on what Christ did for us because of our sin.  He suffered, He died, and those things do not bring about joyful thoughts.  So to focus on the word joy seems to be out of place.  Yet, the Lent season begins at Christmas because without Christmas there would be no Savior.  Isaiah foretold of a Savior being born – “For to us a child is born to us a Son is given and the government will be on his shoulders and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace…” (9:6)  The birth of Jesus is fulfilling the promise God gave us.  There is great joy in that.  In fact, when the angel appeared to the shepherds when Jesus was born there is excitement in the message given.  “Do not be afraid, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.”  Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you, He is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11)

Jesus grows up and fulfills the promise God gave us through John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son…”  It is humbling to know we have a God that loves us so much that He would send His Son to die for you and me.  Through Jesus’ death and resurrection we have eternal life.  It is sobering to think Jesus had to die because of our sin.  Again, finding joy in these words is tough.  However, there is joy in knowing we have a God that fulfills His promises.  We can face each and every day with joy because we have been promised the gift of eternal life!

Cheryl