The Ripple Effect of Joy

I am acting with great boldness toward you; I have great pride in you; I am filled with comfort. In all our affliction, I am overflowing with joy.

— 2 Corinthians 7:4

Toss a pebble into still water and you’ll see a circle surrounding the splash that is quickly enlarged to more concentric circles. It’s called the ripple effect. One little splash creates a beautiful picture of how joy can create an overflowing impact on lives.

This time of year we dwell on the scriptures about the birth of Jesus, and the wonder of the Christmas story brings joy deep in our hearts. And that joy cannot remain quiet or hidden. It bubbles up until it overflows from the heart into laughter and acts of kindness.

The Christmas story is filled with miracles and wonders. Imagine the marvel of an angel speaking to young, innocent Mary; a dream that told Joseph to go ahead and marry his pregnant fiancée; and a town so bursting with people that the couple sought shelter with animals in a cave dwelling. Yet, in the midst of those circumstances, angels filled the heavens with song and shepherds arrived to worship the newborn babe.

We have so much for which to be joyful. The Messiah was born and the prophecies were fulfilled. We have a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

In the middle of frenzied shopping trips and overflowing parking lots, let’s not lose our joy. Be part of a ripple effect by letting your joy overflow this Christmas season.

Today’s One Thing

Spend time reflecting on the wonder of Christ’s birth until you feel the joy of the season bubbling over from the inside out. Then share that joy by caroling through your neighborhood, serving those in need or baking Christmas treats for friends and family.

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