Joy to the World!

 

            Joy to the world!  It’s that time of the year when our thoughts turn to joy.  We remember that baby in a manger, and we can’t help but be overwhelmed with the reality of the sacrifice He made for us.  So, we sing joyful songs, share festive meals, and exchange gifts—all in an effort to reflect our joy.

            The problem is that there is no joy for some people.  A friend in the hospital, another in hospice care, others burying loved ones, and still others mourning the recent loss of their loved ones.  Some can’t provide even one gift for their kids this Christmas.  Some may go hungry on Christmas Day.  Where is the “joy” for each of these people?

            The truth is that we shouldn’t be surprised when the troubles of this world invade our “joy.” God never promised us “joy”.  In fact, Jesus said, “In this world, you will have trouble.  But take heart, I have overcome the world” (John 16: 33b, NIV84).  So how do you find “joy” in your darkest hours?

            Paul and Silas give us one idea.  While they were in the city of Philippi, they were brought up on charges because they freed a slave girl of an evil spirit.  After hearing the false charges against them, the magistrates ordered them to be stripped, beaten, and thrown into prison.  That night, as they sat in the cold prison cell with their feet fastened in stocks, they began praying and singing (Acts 16: 16 – 25).  Despite their harsh conditions, they still trusted God, and that’s where we also find our only true “joy.”

            Perhaps James, the brother of Jesus, says it best.  “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance” (James 1: 2, 3 NIV84).  I don’t know about you, but I’ve found that James is right.  My faith has grown more through my struggles and hardships than at any other time in my life.  As my faith grows, my “joy” in knowing and trusting God also overflows. 

            This Christmas season, I pray for “joy” in the hearts of all mankind, but I know that there will also be struggles.  That’s the price of living in a sinful world.  The good news is that we have a Savior who paid the ultimate sacrifice so that we could have a “joy” that is beyond earthly understanding.  That’s the “joy” that I wish for each of you this year!

I Peter 1: 3 - 9

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