the gift of joy

Even before birth, Jesus brought joy to the world. Recall the moment when Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, and Mary, the mother of Jesus, were together with their babies in the womb. Baby John joyfully leaped in Elizabeth's womb upon feeling Jesus' presence, demonstrating profound joy!

Throughout His time on Earth, Jesus exemplified a profound sense of joy that emanated from within Him. This joy was not fleeting or superficial; it was a deep and abiding presence that sustained Him through all circumstances, including moments of sadness and hardship. In His unwavering trust in the Father, Jesus drew upon a wellspring of joy that never ran dry, likening it to "the oil of joy" that nourishes and uplifts the soul—a precious gift that is also extended to each one of us.

However, embracing joy requires a willingness to be receptive to the outpouring of divine grace and love into our lives. It entails opening our hearts and minds to the transformative power of joy, allowing it to permeate every aspect of our existence and illuminate even the darkest corners of our being.

It is important to recognize that joy transcends mere happiness or amusement; it is a profound emotion that goes beyond surface-level experiences to touch the very essence of who we are. When we allow joy to take root within us, it infuses each moment with a sense of purpose and significance, connecting us to the deeper rhythms of life and evoking feelings of contentment, gratitude, and reverence.

You have the capacity to live joyfully irrespective of external circumstances. Reflect on what brings your true joy.

Dear Father,

I seek joy in tough times, asking for divine help to embrace genuine joy and overcome obstacles. I implore for an overflow of true joy in my life, desiring a reset to rediscover childlike joy. I humbly ask for divine intervention to eliminate hindrances and lead me to authentic joy. Grant me an abundance of overflowing joy this Christmas. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Here are a few scriptures to contemplate as you embrace the blessing of Joy

My fellow believers, when it seems as though you are facing nothing but difficulties see it as an invaluable opportunity to experience the greatest joy that you can! For you know that when your faith is tested it stirs up power within you to endure all things.  James 1:2-3

Go ahead and celebrate! Come on and clap your hands, everyone! Shout to God with the raucous sounds of joy! Psalm 47:1

Lord, you have multiplied the nation and given them overwhelming joy! They are ecstatic in your presence and rejoice like those who bring in a great harvest and those who divide up the spoils of victory! Isaiah 9:3

Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for God has already approved what you do. Ecclesiastes 9:7

You love him passionately although you did not see him, but through believing in him you are saturated with an ecstatic joy, indescribably sublime and immersed in glory. For you are reaping the harvest of your faith—the full salvation promised you—your souls’ victory! 1 Peter 1:8-9

Excerpt from O Holy Night

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