It can be pretty easy to miss the joy of Christmas. Given the number of things to do, it can seem like a giant hassle as we try and get all the gifts, food and events sorted out among the throngs of people all trying to do the same. Or, alternatively, we can become sickened by the commercialism attached to Christmas, shocked at the amount of money people are prepared to spend to attain that elusive thing, “the perfect Christmas”. For some, Christmas highlights a long running family tension or an empty seat around the table that can never be filled. Loneliness and grief become magnified as it seems everyone else is having a fantastic time during what has become offensively called “the silly season”.

But Joy is at the very heart of the Christmas event, joy that exists separate from our having the perfect gift, the perfect food or the perfect event to go to. It’s the joy that comes from knowing what happened all those years ago in Bethlehem. God didn’t come in a palace among the rich and famous where the good food is found. God didn’t come to keep the status quo but to bring about the kingdom of God. God came in a dirty stable to be with the poor, the hungry, the marginalised, and the sick. He came to them to let them know that things were going to change. If they were hungry, they’d be fed. If they were poor, they’d be taken care of. If they were sick, they’d be well again. If they were on the outside they would be welcomed and accepted.

This is why it is called the good news. It brings joy to those who have none. In the world Jesus created, we have seen how life is meant to be. We see it is a life full of joy because God cares enough about us to come to us and show us the way back. As Christians it is our job to live this joy and to share this joy. It’s easy to be cynical about Christmas; it’s easy to get the reputation of a killjoy as we point people to the real meaning of Christmas. But the truth is, the kingdom of God doesn’t end on Boxing Day; doesn’t get packed away on the 6th January with the tree and the tinsel. The kingdom of God remains among us, giving joy to those who have none, reassuring them of God’s love and God’s care. It’s not killing joy to show that there is a better way to live. May we know this joy, live this joy, and share this joy with everyone.