We can point to so many things surrounding the Christmas season that fill us with joy: the music, the decorations, the food, the warmth of family, and special times of worship. But are these things the fundamental part of our Christmas joy, or simply reflections of something deeper?

The answer is found in the Gospel of Luke and his telling of the events leading up to Jesus' birth. Particularly, Luke highlights the story of Mary, the young virgin and mother-to-be. While Jesus being conceived in her womb by the Holy Spirit should be impressive enough, what stands out as well is Mary's most humble joy in response to the honor God had given her to bear his Son.

Within the nature of Mary's joy (along with other expressions of joy in this narrative) you can find the true meaning of Christmas, and why this type of joy outshines all the others.