Significant Women with Carol McLeod | Carol Mcleod Ministries

The Fullness of Joy with Carol McLeod

Episode Summary

In this special episode of the Significant Women podcast, Carol McLeod turns our hearts back to the true meaning of the Christmas season. She reminds us that long before Mary, Joseph, or Bethlehem, God already had a plan—and His plan was Jesus. Drawing from Luke 1, Carol reflects on Mary’s visit to Elizabeth and the moment baby John leapt in the womb at the presence of Christ. That explosive joy becomes a picture for us today: when Jesus enters the room, joy follows. Carol explores the difference between happiness and joy, teaching that joy is not found in gifts, celebrations, or traditions—it is found only in the presence of Jesus. She encourages listeners to seek Him through Scripture, worship, and prayer this Christmas, making room for the joy of heaven to fill their lives. With warmth, humor, and biblical insight, Carol invites listeners to respond to Jesus with their own “John jump”—a heart overflowing with joy because the Savior has come. The episode closes with prayer, a reminder of the ministry’s mission, and an encouragement to focus on the heart of Christmas: Jesus Himself.

Episode Notes

Welcome back for another Christmas episode of the Significant Women Podcast with Carol McLeod! On today’s show Carol dives further into the Christmas story, exploring the role of John, Elizabeth, and the great joy of the season found in Christ’s coming.

Key Takeaways

• Jesus has always been God’s plan. From Eden to Abraham, from David to Daniel, God’s rescue plan for humanity has always been Jesus.
• John the Baptist responded to Jesus even in the womb. When Mary visited Elizabeth, baby John leapt for joy—not at Mary’s presence, but at the presence of Jesus.
• Joy is found only in the presence of the Lord. Happiness comes from circumstances, but heaven’s joy comes from being near Jesus.
• The “John jump” is the natural response to Jesus. When Jesus enters our lives, the appropriate reaction is exuberant joy—because joy is the atmosphere of heaven.
• We often look for joy in the wrong places. Gifts, gatherings, busyness, and traditions may bring happiness, but only Jesus offers true joy.
• Christmas calls us back to His presence. Prayer, worship, and Scripture immerse us in the joy Jesus brought to earth.
• Everyone can experience joy—regardless of life’s pain. Joy is not dependent on circumstances. Even in hardship, Jesus brings the joy of heaven to earth.
• The Christmas story is a story of God’s love and plan. It is not about cultural trimmings, but about God sending Jesus to bring salvation, hope, and joy.