The word, “ joy ” is used almost two hundred times in the Bible (KJV) and always in reference to an emotional state of delight, wonder, bliss, happiness, and gladness. We are told repeatedly to be joyful, to be filled with joy and to display our joy.
Joy is the natural reaction to the work of God, whether promised or fulfilled. Joy expresses God’s kingdom and HIS influence on earth . The Spirit’s production of joy can manifest through deliverance, salvation, spiritual maturity, and God’s presence.
Possessing joy is a choice. We choose whether to value God’s presence, promises, and work in our lives. When we yield to the Spirit, He opens our eyes to God’s grace around us and fills us with joy . Joy is not to be found in a fallen world; it is only fellowship with God that can make our joy complete. (Above information found online)
Learning new things everyday keeps my mind occupied. Yesterday, our church observed the 3rd Sunday of Advent Season. This was a new experience for me in which the pink candle representing “JOY” was lit. The reason for my name now makes more sense to me, as my birthday is nestled somewhere in these seven days. I was always told my parents chose it because of the JOY found at Christmas time. Yesterday, the celebration of Advent became much more important as the meaning behind the candle was explained. New beauty in the simple flicker of a candle. I was born during the week of Joy!
Birthdays are a total bother to me, especially mine. If anyone else has similar feelings around a Christmas birthday, you’re not alone. Our presents are afterthoughts to the season. No swim party or outdoor picnic with balloons and clowns for us. Who wants a birthday cake when there are all sorts of wonderful Christmas goodies to select. As the years have gone by, I prefer to spend December celebrating the Reason for the Season rather than myself.
Today is my one year anniversary since my Holy baptism. I can’t explain the changes that have come over my heart, enriching my life. Subtle, slow, and steady changes. I look at things differently now. Things I used to ignore have new meaning. I am eternally grateful that God didn’t give up on me.
On a more earthly note, MM and I are traveling to the bigger city to the East to discover whether or not the Wookie is with puppies. In this day and age, there are even ultrasounds for canine mommies. Please, don’t breathe a word of this to Oliver. He’ll never understand that he is not the true father. We’ll just let him believe he’s Dad. He loves her so. Without thumbs and a credit card, he’ll never be able to send off a DNA test anyway.
Whatever you do today, take time to think about the real Reason for the Season. It isn’t about the boxes and bows. It’s about friendships, love, and peace. Hope and bright futures. Faith and love renewed. It’s about new life.
JOY.
Yes. Christmas is all about the real meaning behind the word “JOY”.
More tomorrow.