Season of Joy

By Dennis Harworth

Christmas arrives each year in a hush of wonder, as twinkling lights brighten the dark streets and hearts open quietly with goodness.  Kindness just feels easier, generosity more natural, and people are more considerate to others.  Shared meals, family gatherings, and familiar carols blend memories with hope and reminds us that joy multiplies when shared. 

Then there is such a pleasure of watching the joy and excitement of children as they open presents at Christmas.  The room fills with energy and enthusiasm as they eagerly discover what treasure is hidden beneath the wrapping paper.  There are squeals of pure delight, smiles of surprise, and overflowing happiness that becomes contagious.  The child’s enjoyment is unfiltered and sincere as they run into their parent’s arms for warm hugs.  The thrill of their gifts reminds them of being loved and remembered, making the Christmas morning special and unforgettable.

These moments might be precious, but the joy of Christmas is not in the presents, but in the presence of God.  At the first Christmas, joy was proclaimed with heavenly authority.  An angel of the Lord appeared and as the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded the frightened shepherds, the angel said, Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord (Luke 2:9-10).  This great joy was rooted in the birth of Jesus the Messiah – Immanuel, God with us (Matthew 1:23).  The joy of Christmas is powerful for it is celebrating the birth of Jesus; God in our very midst!

The joy of being in the presence of God is incomparable to anything this world has to offer. Psalm16:11 declares,You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.  When you have a holy and intimate fellowship with the unlimited, eternal God, you do not have the capacity for more.  For it is through Jesus that you can live daily in the presence of the One who brought joy to the world.  If you want to experience this fullness of joy and continual pleasures here’s what to do:

Quiet yourself before Him (Psalm 46:10),

spend intimate time in prayer (Matthew 6:6),

meditate on God’s Word (Psalm 1:2),

worship Him in spirit and in truth (John 4:23-24).

While the joys of Christmas can be seasonal and short-lived, the joy found in God’s presence will sustain you, strengthen you (Nehemiah 8:10), and completely satisfy you in every season of life.  It does not depend on circumstances but on a relationship with a loving and giving God.  Christmas does not create great joy – it reveals its source.  Therefore, let Christmas be a reminder for you to go to the source and let your life be a continual SEASON OF JOY.