And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.   --Luke 2:10–11

The greatest announcement ever was made about the greatest gift ever given. A Savior has been born! It doesn't get more important than that for all of us who need to be rescued. And in case you haven't been keeping track, that is all of us. 

He will be known as Emmanuel, which is more title or description than name, telling us God has come to dwell with us.

God. With. Us. 

His actual name will be Jesus, which also has significant meaning. Jesus means "the Lord saves." He was given that name because He will save us from our sins. 

Let me point out two specific things about this announcement and this gift. 

First, this gift is unto you. God sent His Son to rescue you. The OG birth announcement was made to lowly shepherds in the field. It wasn't to the dignitaries, the rulers, or the elite in society. The first to hear the good news were some of the lowest. And the angel tells this ragamuffin group of sheep herders that the Savior was born unto them. 

Those words are like the tag on the presents under your tree. This gift wrapped up in swaddling cloths and lying in that manger is To: You and From: God. This is good news of great joy, indeed. 

Next, this gift is unto all. Notice what the angel said before the unto you part. This good news of great joy is for all the people! Lowly shepherds in the field? Yes. Magi from a far away country? Absolutely? You and your family and friends? Without a doubt. Every nation, tribe, and tongue? Count on it. 

Joy to the world! Christmas was a mission. God coming to rescue us. And Christmas reminds us that we are on mission. It's good news of great joy for all the people and all the peoples. 

Let's rejoice that our Savior was born. And let's remember that this gift is for our neighbors, our classmates, our coworkers, and the entire world. Share, invite, and include wherever you can. 

Unto you and unto all. 

Merry Christmas!