Joy for New Dreams
“Joy” is defined by Webster's Dictionary as the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one desires. Some synonyms are pleasure, enjoyment, satisfaction, and elation. I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone who would turn down some joy.
Each of us has needs to be met. Some are necessary for our survival while others are more for our comfort or pleasure. We can understand our body’s need for water and food, but what about the cushioned chairs at church? Or the brand-new car we cannot afford? Do we need them or simply want the pleasure they bring?
True joy is meant to stay. It is not dependent on outer circumstances but rather speaks of the condition of our hearts and soul. Are they healthy and well-rounded? The book of Philippians in the New Testament is one of my all-time favorite books. It speaks of authentic joy, regardless of circumstances. The author Paul has been thrown in prison because of his faith. And this is not his first time behind bars. He’s faced persecution in ways many of us today will never face. Nonetheless, Paul had joy and was eager to share it. His heart was full of joy, and he couldn’t keep it to himself.
Philippians 4:10-13 ESV
I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance, and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Paul shares the secret for joy. Contentment regardless of circumstances at hand. True joy is not based on what we have or don’t have. Rather the perspective and mindset, and where our priorities are settled. Living with thanksgiving in our hearts even amidst challenging circumstances.
I can’t help but think about the sheer joy the shepherds felt when they heard (and saw) that Jesus had been born. That things had worked out just as they were told, and just as prophets had foretold hundreds of years prior. This was the Messiah, the Anointed One. The One who would change the course of eternity.
Luke 2:15-20 ESV
When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.
Darkness cannot survive where there is light. I wrote this in my Bible and drew a picture of a manger with bright stars shining around it. I think this is one of the reasons why I like Christmas so much. It’s the season in which darkness is eradicated forever.
Jesus is the true source of light available to all of us. A hope of eternity is soon to come. The arrival of the Messiah is enough to bring joy. A sense of contentment regardless of my outer circumstances. A sense of confidence to break out of my comfort zone and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit into the great unknown.
I pray that this Christmas, you will be filled with the true joy only our Savior can bring. May you focus on the light He brings, even during the darkest nights. May you choose to wait expectantly for His return. It will be sooner than we think and we must be ready.
Psalm 5:3 NLT
Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord.
Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly.
