How Great Our Joy!

Joy is a pervading theme throughout the Bible. In the midst of Old Testament Israel's despair was the eternal promise of joy: "They that sow in tears shall reap in joy." (Ps. 126:5) "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning." (Ps. 30:5b) A new day of joy did eventually dawn as reflected in the angelic proclamation to Judean shepherds near Bethlehem: "I bring you good news of great joy! For to you is born this day a Savior, Christ the Lord." (Lk 2:10-11) This cantata, a collaborative work by Lloyd Larson and Douglas E. Wagner, presents the Christmas message in a fresh and powerful blending of familiar carols with new texts and tunes. Scripturally-based narration along with optional congregational participation makes this truly a joyous worship experience for the Christmas celebration. Performance time: approximately 35 minutes.