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A Cause for Great Joy

“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.”¹

One of the most memorable songs from singing in the children’s choir at Christmastime was “Go, Tell It On The Mountain”. It had an upbeat tempo which was perfect for children’s enthusiastically loud voices. Perhaps at that young age we couldn’t describe what joy meant, but boy did we feel it! As time goes on and you experience the difficulties of life that come with adulthood, this genuine joy gets clouded.

Although it is hard to say when this song was originally written, it is suggested that it dates back to at least 1865. Interestingly enough, “Go Tell” was sung by people who were brought as slaves to this country. Hardly any of them were given the opportunity to learn to read and write, however, this didn’t stop them from creating some our favorite songs sung today. A man named, John Wesley Work, Jr. was the son of a church choir director, and he had a love for music. He began to collect and record many of the songs that had been written by those in slavery. The list of songs included, “Go Tell It On The Mountain”.

Those enslaved endured many hardships, however, the lyrics in this song gave much needed hope to all. Regardless of their circumstances, they sang of the strength and true joy that we find in Jesus, who was born for us.

Life can be hard, and as much as we would like to believe that the holidays bring relief from such troubles, for many it is not so. Christmas, however, is not about temporary happiness, instead it is about experiencing joy despite our circumstances.

Let us echo this message of hope this Christmas. Jesus is born! In Him we can find comforting joy, even in the midst of life’s hardships.

Suggested prayer: Dear Lord, thank you that the joy you offer does not depend on my circumstances, rather it is something that flows like a river of life from within me! Help it overflow to those around me, and may they find their way to You this Christmas. You are our hope in all circumstances. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.

 

1. Luke 2:10-11 (NIV).

 

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.