Read John 15:10-11
“Joy” is a term used so loosely today that we scarcely understand its meaning. We are told that Joy can be found in bread, in dish soap, or even on radio stations. Christmas especially has fallen prey to a warped sense of joy. It is the Season of Joy, when we must joyfully give material gifts in an attempt to bring joy to others by spending our money at joyous shopping malls. Everybody wants joy – it is the pinnacle of happiness, a state of serene bliss brought on by success, good fortune, and getting what we desire. Entire religions have been created around the quest for this type of joy.
But Scripture suggests something else: the joy of the wicked is fleeting, and joy resulting from material comforts will not last. Hebrews 12:2 says Jesus overlooked the suffering of the cross for “the joy set before Him.” We can understand His joy in light of what brings joy to God: righteousness and a repentant sinner. The birth of Jesus was a time of joy because, through Him, many would be saved. Motivated by His love, the righteous would then do good works to glorify God.
During this Season of Joy, give our Lord the gift of joy – true joy – by rejoicing in His salvation and honoring Him with a repentant, loving heart.
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