Joy to the World

During this busy time of year, it’s easy to lose track of what’s important. We fret over holiday decorations, shopping for presents and running here and there and everywhere, and we sometimes forget the reason for the season is the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

The story of Jesus’ birth is recorded in only two brief passages in the Bible. The disciple Matthew tells of a group of “wise men” who traveled to see a baby born to a virgin mother. Guided by a star, they arrived in Bethlehem to find the child and “rejoiced with exceeding great joy.” In the Gospel of Luke, we read about shepherds who were visited by an angel while they tended their flock. “And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.”

Christmas truly is a time of joy. We find joy in all the bright lights, festive displays and delicious holiday treats. We experience joy as we celebrate with friends, and reunite with loved ones. Joy is everywhere at Christmastime. But the greatest joy of all is that Christ is born.

I hope each and every one of you knows joy this Christmas. I also encourage you to spread some of that joy around. Drop a few dollars in the bell-ringers kettle, lend a hand at a local shelter, make a place at your table for a guest or simply share a kind word with the people you meet. Also, remember our troops and keep them in your prayers. They can certainly use some joy as they serve far from home.

Merry Christmas everyone.

It’s my honor to serve as your senator for the 16th District. If you have questions or need any assistance, please call my office at 573-751-5713 or log onto my webpage at https://www.senate.mo.gov/brown for more information.