Matthew 2:10
When they saw the star, they were filled with joy!
Jesus gives the true joy of the season.
In the book, Blessed
are the Misfits, Brant Hansen, Star 93.3 radio DJ, poses the question,
"Can a person have depression and joy at the same time?" That got me
to thinking, can we invite joy into our hearts during the holidays, regardless
of our circumstances or our feelings? Can I be joyful during the holidays even
when...
I'm a single parent and, by America's standards, I
can't buy what my children want...
I've lost a loved one who won't be there to wish a
Merry Christmas...
I'm a high school student who has no close
friends...
I'm a college student struggling to balance work and
school...
I'm a parent rushing from activity to activity just
trying to get it all done...
I’m single and all my friends are in couples...
I'm a soldier, out of the country, with no hope of
being home for the holidays...
I’m sick and not sure I can celebrate...
I'm just overwhelmed with all the preparation of Christmas...
I haven't experienced all of these scenarios, but
I've had my share of struggles
during the holidays. Circumstances that could
have stolen every speck of joy from my heart. Yet, God shined on me through His
people and His word. I found if I could hold on to one little twinkle of joy in
my heart, the fire would burn and spark delight in my soul.
Joy filled the wise men's hearts when they saw the star and realized Jesus was nearby. He is for us, too. Jesus is here with the joy we desire. Not happiness that's fleeting, but joy that underlies all circumstances. Even when everything seems difficult, frustrating, or hopeless Jesus' joy is like a buoy that helps me through the tough times. I think of it as heavenly delight that fills my soul.
I pray this Christmas you’ll seek hope in Jesus and discover
His spark of amazing joy.