The coming of the Savior is a cause for great joy. Zechariah heard the words, “thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth.” (Luke 1:14) At Zachariah’s protest, Gabriel speaks, “I am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings.” (Luke 1:19) When Elizabeth and Mary meet, we read, that the baby John, “leaps in Elizabeth’s womb for joy.” (Luke 1:44) Mary’s song (Luke 1:46-55) is a song full of joy. We hear her sing, “My soul doth magnify the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.” (Luke 1:46-47) The same is true of Zachariah’s song (Luke 1:69-79) But we also find joy with the shepherds and Simeon (Luke 2). Truly, the coming of the promised Messiah is a cause for overflowing and rich joy. He who was promised immediately after the Fall is coming! He who was promised and overshadowed for so long is coming! His name is Jesus, Savior. He is the Son of God, in Him God visits sinners to save them. He is the One who brings lost sinners back to paradise from their present state of exile. He is the one who brings light into darkness. He is the one who brings peace in turmoil. He is the one who comes with justice in a world and in hearts full of injustice. He brings love where hate reigns. He brings wisdom where foolishness reigns. But His first task is to become the Suffering Servant to pay for the sins and guilt of sinners. That forgiveness is sufficient for the whole world, but is effective for those who believe, those whose names are written in the book of the living. In Him, Christ, the stores of heaven have been opened and innumerable and inestimable blessings are available to those who come to Christ in repentance and faith. He was laid down in a manger, for needy sinners who bow before Him in repentance and faith. Mary sings of Him, “his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation.” (Luke 1:50) Let us go to Him not wavering for He will save the greatest sinner. Mary sings, “He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away.” (Luke 1:53) Let us go out to Him as a poor and needy sinner and be filled with Him. And whoever receives Him knows of this overflowing and rich joy.