Joy in the Mourning

The light of Christmas shines dimly for many around the world. It is a time of want. It is a time of persecution. It is a time of grief. It is a time of loneliness. Comfort seems so distant. Words seem so empty – except these:
Weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning. (Psalm 30:5)
With dawn comes new life and new hope for a new day. And on one special day, the Son descended and light entered the dark recesses of the hearts of men. In that, we can rejoice.
Because of our God’s merciful compassion, the Dawn from on high will visit us to shine on those who live in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. (Luke 1:78-79)
Peace has not eluded the African pastor who watches helplessly as his church is pillaged and his flock scattered. The Prince of Peace dwells in his heart. In that, he can rejoice.
I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: Today a Savior, who is Messiah the Lord, was born for you in the city of David. (Luke 2:10-11). 
It is good news of great joy for all people. It is good news for the grieving mother, for she knows that child born in the city of David was also born in the heart of her son. In that, she can rejoice.
When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. (Matthew 2:10)
Our Deliverer has come. Our Deliverer is coming again. In that, we can rejoice.
Behold the Babe born in the manger. Know His peace, and trust His heart. One day that Dawn from on high will restore joy in your mourning. 
He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. (Revelation 21:4)
Those who trust in Christ will find everlasting comfort and everlasting peace. In that, we can rejoice. Set your face toward the Son, and let His light shine in your darkness.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! (Philippians 4:4)
To the grieving, I say, rejoice!
To the afflicted, I say, rejoice!
To the persecuted, I say, rejoice!
To the heartbroken, I say, rejoice!
To the oppressed, I say, rejoice!
To the hopeless, I say, rejoice!
To the castaway, I say, rejoice!
To the motherless, I say, rejoice!
To the weary, I say, rejoice!
To the restless, I say, rejoice!
To the forgotten, I say, rejoice!
To the suffering, I say, rejoice!
He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him. (Psalm 126:5-6)
Christ has come. He has come to give you strength for today and hope for eternity. He has come to be your peace.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! (Philippians 4:4)
Merry Christmas, my friends, and may His joy fill your hearts, even in times of heartache.