Unwrapping the Gift of Joy : A Christmas Reflection On True Joy
As Christmas approaches, many of us find ourselves longing for something more than the fleeting happiness this world often offers. In the hustle and bustle of the season, the pursuit of joy can feel elusive, overshadowed by life’s challenges, unfulfilled expectations, or the temporary highs of holiday celebrations.
But the story of Christmas points us to a joy that is unshakable and enduring. It is not dependent on circumstances or momentary pleasures but is a gift that flows from knowing Jesus. The message of His birth invites us to experience a joy that transforms our hearts, sustains us through life’s trials, and brings hope to even the most ordinary moments.
1. What is Joy?
Joy is not the same as happiness. While happiness is a temporary emotion based on current circumstances, joy is a deep, internal confidence that remains steady regardless of external conditions. It’s an attitude, not an emotion, a profound understanding that everything will ultimately be okay.
Key Differences:
- Happiness is circumstantial and fleeting; joy is a constant state of inner peace
- Happiness depends on happenings; joy is a deep confidence that everything will be okay
Biblical References that Help Understand Joy:
In the Letter of Paul to the Philippians, often called the Epistle of Joy, Paul speaks about rejoicing even while in prison.
Philippians 2:11 illustrates the foundational understanding of joy: Jesus abandoned His sovereign position, was accepted as a servant, approached sinful people, adopted a selfless posture, and ultimately ascended as the supreme prince.
He came to earth, took our sins, died for us, conquered death and sin, and rose again to be the King of kings and the Lord of lords.
Romans 8:28 provides a foundational understanding of joy amid circumstances: “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
Therefore, joy is an attitude, knowing that Jesus is the King, He is Lord, and that everything will eventually work out for good.
2. How Do You Receive Joy?
In John 15, Jesus uses the parable of the vine and branches to explain our connection to Him. He states in John 15:11, “These things I have spoken to you that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” From this, we understand that Jesus is the source of joy and confidence.
Receiving joy is directly connected to your relationship with Jesus Christ. According to Galatians, the Holy Spirit helps you cultivate the fruit of joy. To do this, you must:
- Be a believer in Jesus
- Have the Holy Spirit within you
Biblical narratives show that whenever people encountered Jesus—from Mary to the shepherds, from the wise men to the disciples—their primary response was joy. Joy is fundamentally a reaction to experiencing Christ.
Illustrations from Biblical Narratives:
a) Mary’s Response (Luke 1:46-47): “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.”
b) Shepherds’ Reaction (Luke 2:10): “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.'”
c) Wise Men’s Rejoicing (Matthew 2:10): “When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.”
d) Disciples’ Gladness (John 20:20): “When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.”
To receive this joy, we must come to Jesus Christ and accept Him as our Savior.
3. How Do We Keep Joy and Share It with Others?
Here are six practical strategies for maintaining and spreading joy:
- Continually Preach the Gospel to Yourself: Remind yourself of what you believe. Recall God’s faithfulness in past moments (Philippians 1:25).
- Preach Christ to Others: Sharing the gospel isn’t just a duty; it’s a pathway to experiencing joy (Philippians 1:18,19).
- Stay Consistent in Prayer: Prayer connects you to the source of joy, maintaining your spiritual connection (John 15:11).
- Seek Unity with Believers: Fellowship creates a preview of heavenly unity and sustains joy (Philippians 2:1-2).
- Practice Humility: A simple formula—Jesus first, others next, yourself last (Philippians 2:3-4).
- Foster Meaningful Fellowship: Spend time with fellow believers, sharing struggles and encouragements (Philippians 2:28-30).
Conclusion
The profound truth is that joy has a name, and that name is Jesus. It’s not about having a perfect life, but about having a perfect relationship with the one who conquers all challenges.
Is Jesus the king of your life? Like a factory that can only produce good fruit when properly managed, our lives find true joy when we surrender control to Christ.
Remember, joy isn’t a destination; it’s a journey with Jesus at the center.
