When they saw the star they shouted joyfully.

And with this confidence I intended to come to you first so that you would get a second opportunity to see us,

My brothers and sisters, consider it nothing but joy when you fall into all sorts of trials,

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid! Listen carefully, for I proclaim to you good news that brings great joy to all the people:

But now I am coming to you, and I am saying these things in the world, so they may experience my joy completed in themselves.

And since I am sure of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for the sake of your progress and joy in the faith,

complete my joy and be of the same mind, by having the same love, being united in spirit, and having one purpose.

I have had great joy and encouragement because of your love, for the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother.

His master answered, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave! You have been faithful in a few things. I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master.’

His master answered, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave! You have been faithful with a few things. I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master.’

I tell you the solemn truth, you will weep and wail, but the world will rejoice; you will be sad, but your sadness will turn into joy.

When a woman gives birth, she has distress because her time has come, but when her child is born, she no longer remembers the suffering because of her joy that a human being has been born into the world.

So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.

So they were sent on their way by the church, and as they passed through both Phoenicia and Samaria, they were relating at length the conversion of the Gentiles and bringing great joy to all the brothers.