And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. 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; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
          Luke 2:8-12 (NIV)

Joy is GIVEN

The meek shall obtain fresh joy in the Lord, and the poor among mankind shall exult in the Holy One of Israel.

Isaiah 29:19 (ESV)

Joy is CHOSEN

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”

Psalm 51:12 (NIV)

Joy is SHARED

As for us we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.

Acts 4:20 (NIV)

BOTTOM LINE:

Christmas without CHRIST is Christmas without JOY

THE CHALLENGE:

SPARK JOY