
Joy to the World! The Lord is come.
by Rev. Emmanuel I. Ihemedu | 12/22/2024 | Live the LiturgyThis Christmas, we echo the joyful proclamation of the angel to the shepherds: “I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: a Savior has been born for you” (Luke 2:10-11). These words ring with the promise of hope, peace, and salvation—a promise fulfilled in the birth of Jesus Christ, the Messiah and Lord. The Christmas hymn “Joy to the World,” inspired by Isaac Watts’ interpretation of Psalm 98, captures the true essence of this season: “The Lord is come; let earth receive her King!”
As we celebrate the birth of Christ, let us also prepare room in our hearts for Him, just as Watts encourages us to let heaven and nature sing. Christ’s coming is not just a historical event but an ongoing invitation to experience His transformative joy in our lives.
In a year marked by both challenges and blessings, I am deeply grateful for the grace of God shining through our parish community. Your unwavering prayers, acts of kindness, and heartfelt support are living examples of Christ’s love in action. Whether you serve as a volunteer, usher, Eucharistic minister, lector, choir member, altar server, parish staff, or contribute to our ministries in any capacity—or even by offering a simple word of encouragement—you embody the joy and peace that Jesus brings to the world. Your dedication and generosity make our parish a true reflection of His light.
Let us take to heart the message of the hymn: “No more let sins and sorrows grow, Nor thorns infest the ground; He comes to make His blessings flow Far as the curse is found.”
This Christmas, may we not only celebrate Christ’s birth but also embrace His mission to bring healing, hope, and blessings to all corners of our world. His light shines through our acts of charity, forgiveness, and love. As you gather with family and friends, may the Christ Child bless your homes with His peace and your hearts with His joy. Let us adore Him with the humility of the shepherds, the faith of Mary and Joseph, and the wonder of the angels.
On behalf of Fr. Carlos, our dedicated parish staff, and myself, I wish you a Merry and Holy Christmas and a New Year filled with abundant blessings. May the joy of Christ’s coming sustain you in every season of life and remind you that He reigns now and forevermore!
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