Scripture for Today:  Luke 2:10-11  “But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.'”

There are actually two Christmas messages in this garland.  First, there is the obvious; “Joyeux Noël” or “Merry Christmas” in French.  The second message is an unintended repetition; “no L.”  When teaching fourth grade I used to put the alphabet on the blackboard without the “L” and see who could find the Christmas message first!

The word,”noël” was first used in the English language in the 14th century.  There are two ideas about its origin.  The first thought is that “noël” is a variant of “nael” derived in turn from the Latin word, “natalis” meaning, “birth.”  As Christmas is all about the birth of Jesus, that makes sense.  Then there is the idea that “noël” is derived from the French word, “nouvelles” meaning, “news.”  In either case, the emphasis is on the good news of our Savior’s birth.

In our verse for today, there is good news announced of a great joy!  It is not just for those hearing the angel’s declaration but it is offered to all the people.  The birth of the Savior is astonishing news!  That the God of the universe would condescend to humble Himself and become a vulnerable baby is astounding!  But the truth that He did it for me is what is difficult to grasp.  He did it to become my personal Savior.  In His love, He stooped that low so that I could be saved from the entirely just punishment for my sin.  It is too wondrous to describe!

What joyful news!  Joyeux Noël!