Joy to the World 

   Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song. Let the sea resound and all that is in it, the world, and all who live in it. Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing together for joy...

   For he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples with equity.

   Not exactly a Christmas carol, for this excerpt from Psalm 98 was the basis for Isaac Watts' text, celebrating the return of the Lord to judge the world. 

   We can sing this at Christmas, for the Lord is involved with his people, beginning at the stable in Bethlehem. Each Christmas we look back and praise God for the glorious gift of His Son. 

   But we also look forward to His return, when God will bring a righteous conclusion to all things. Judgment will not be joyful for unbelievers. Isaac Watts had in mind those who are waiting for salvation.  

   Then we will begin to fully enjoy "the wonders of His love." 

Joy to the world! The Lord is come;

Let earth receive her King;

Let every heart prepare Him room.

And heav'n and nature sing.