Unless you are pulling out a traditional hymn book in church you are unlikely to sing the richest part of the Christmas song: Joy to the World. Most of the versions on the radio, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, even Veggie Tales omit this incredible verse of this song. It reads: "No more let sins and sorrows grow, nor thorns invest the ground, He comes to make his blessings flow, far as the curse is found..."
And strangely this verse stands at the very center of the biblical reason why this baby is actually bringing joy to the world. It gets me every time I sing it.
And strangely this verse stands at the very center of the biblical reason why this baby is actually bringing joy to the world. It gets me every time I sing it.
I agree! There is not one other thing in this universe that brings the Joy of that greatest and best news for mankind, God's grace and Love revealed in Jesus. Thanks for the reminder.......
ReplyDeleteBelow is a neat poem that I shared with the Fred clan on our Christmas gathering that you might like; It's called "Santa to Jesus" Picture Santa kneeling before Jesus in the manger and saying..........
My dear precious Jesus, I did not mean to take your place,
I only bring toys and things and you bring love and grace.
People give me lists of wishes and hope that they came true;
But you hear prayers of the heart and promise your will to do.
Children try to be good and not to cry when I am coming to town; But you love them unconditionally and that love will abound.
I leave only a bag of toys and temporary joy for a season;
But you leave a heart of love, full of purpose and reasons.
I have a lot of believers and what one might call fame;
But I never healed the blind or tried to help the lame.
I have rosy cheeks and a voice full of laughter;
But no nail—scarred hands or a promise of the hereafter.
You may find several of me in town or at a mall;
But there is only one omnipotent you, to answer a sinner’s call.
And so, my dear precious Jesus, I kneel here to pray;
To worship and adore you on this, your holy birthday.