The Joy of Christmas & the Joy of the Church:

In Luke 15:4–7 (ESV), Jesus tells a parable that sets the foundation for the greatest joy of Christmas:

“What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.”

This parable reminds us why the Messiah came to earth. He came to seek and save the lost. Presents, parties, family, and friends are all wonderful parts of the Christmas season, but if we’re more excited about those things than about lost sheep being found, we’re missing the point.

The Heart of Christmas

The baby in the manger grew to become the Good Shepherd, who laid down His life for His sheep (John 10:11). His mission to bring lost sheep into His flock is the very heart of the Good News. If we don’t experience great joy when someone hears the Good Shepherd’s voice for the first time and chooses to follow Him, we’re missing the grand design of Christmas.

This truth becomes especially important during the Christmas season when many people (some out of nostalgia, tradition, or even guilt) find their way to church. Every year, Christmas Eve services see an influx of visitors who don’t regularly attend.

Making Christmas Count

This is our moment to reflect the joy of heaven. Our churches will celebrate the season with carols, candlelight, and Gospel-centered messages, but what’s our role? Let’s be intentional this Christmas. Let’s invite someone who needs to hear the Good News.

It could be a neighbour, a coworker, a family member, or even the mailman! If someone comes to mind, take the next step and ask them to join you. Surely there’s someone in your life who’s waiting to hear the Good Shepherd’s voice.

Dive Deeper Into Scripture

• Study Luke 15:4–7.
• Reflect on John 10:11.

Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts

• Who are you inviting to a Christmas Eve service this year?
• How do you prepare your heart to focus on the Good Shepherd’s mission?
• What traditions remind you of the true joy of Christmas?