This week, we heard from Luke 1:39-56 about God’s gift of joy. The passage begins with a privileged visit, causing the baby in Elizabeth’s womb to leap for joy at the sight of Mary. We see how Mary’s song is full of joy and provides a profound glimpse into God’s heart - He shows undeserved mercy to those who recognize their humble estate and fear Him, and He rightfully brings down the proud and the strong. Luke points forward to how God restores the relationship between mankind and Himself through Jesus, being entirely generous to us despite the punishment our sinful condition deserves. Jesus’ birth promises joy for both the present and the future: He has paved the way for participation in God’s kingdom, true satisfaction for the hungry, and acceptance before God. Yet, we remember that this joy comes at a cost - Jesus would suffer for the forgiveness of our sins, and His name would be proclaimed to all nations. This gives us every reason to rejoice, now and in the future, in what God has promised through Christ our King.
