Sometimes, we are surprised by joy. It can come in the form of an unexpected check, a call from an old friend, falling in love, or the birth of children and grandchildren. These moments can fill our hearts with gladness and a sense of well-being. But joy, especially the kind described in the Bible, goes much deeper than fleeting happiness. What do I mean by joy?
Joy is an emotion evoked by well-being, success, good fortune, or the prospect of good fortune. However, biblical joy is different. It is a deep, abiding gladness rooted in God’s presence and promises, regardless of circumstances. It’s lasting gladness in God. The joy we receive in Christ is not determined by circumstance but by Him.
During Advent, we anticipate the joy of Jesus’ arrival, the fulfillment of God’s promise to bring salvation to the world. His birth marks the dawn of true, lasting joy transcending life’s hardships. As we celebrate His coming, we are reminded that this joy is not fleeting but rooted in the eternal hope and peace Jesus brings.
Let’s begin by looking at the pronouncement of the good news of great joy from Luke 2:10-11, “And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.’” To whom is the angel speaking? Shepherds, who are ordinary people doing ordinary work. Yet, angels appeared to them, signaling that God’s joy reaches the humble, even those overlooked by society. Picture this: In the stillness of the night, as shepherds kept watch over their flocks under a vast, starry sky, the heavens suddenly erupted with brilliance. An angel appeared, radiant with divine light, piercing the quiet darkness. Fear gripped the shepherds, but the angel’s voice sounded comfort, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy!” The message of the Savior’s birth filled the sky with heavenly praise, announcing peace on earth and God’s favor to all.
The ‘good news of great joy’ is Jesus’ birth, fulfilling God’s promise and bringing salvation to the world. This joy is not exclusive, it is inclusive of every race, background, and status. The gift of Jesus is available to all. Even when we feel overlooked or weighed down by life, God’s joy is for us. What’s stealing your joy? Recognize that true joy is not found in circumstances but in knowing Jesus as Savior and Lord.
In Philippians 4:4, Paul exhorts us, ‘Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.’ Paul wrote this from prison, yet his joy flowed from his relationship with Christ, not his circumstances. Like Paul, we are called to choose joy even in hard times. This choice is not always easy, but it is a powerful act of resilience. Joy comes from the assurance that God is with us through every season of life, much like the angels declared at Jesus’ birth.
Psalm 16:11 reminds us, “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” David’s words remind us that true joy is found in God’s presence. The more we focus on Christ, the less control difficult circumstances have over our joy.
Joy is illuminated in our lives when we focus on Christ and spread His joy through acts of kindness, encouragement, and sharing the Gospel. This Advent season, take steps to allow the joy of Christ to illuminate your life and relationships. The birth of Jesus brings joy to all people, a joy that can fill every part of our lives if we allow His presence to be our focus and strength in all circumstances. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!