by Terri Althaus

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For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

—Hebrews 12:2

When the world asks—almost demands—that we enjoy Christmas, the Advent of Christ invites us into a deeper joy.

In Scripture, joy is experienced when something good is received or something wonderful has happened. The nativity story overflows with it: Zechariah and Elizabeth receive their son, John; John leaps in Elizabeth’s womb at the presence of Jesus; and Mary realizes that salvation is coming for God’s people.

Songs of joy fill the air around us during the Christmas season. But isn’t it true that often there is a minor key in the soundtrack? Life’s disappointments and sorrows are the real context into which this joyful message comes. During one Christmas season, I had the joy of giving birth to our son. During another, we lost our oldest daughter to a ravishing disease.

The thing about joy, though, is that it can still be present, and growing, in the most difficult times of life. Unlike enjoyment, joy can’t be fabricated. It is a fruit of the Spirit in us and our response to gifts from God. Perhaps joy occurs in the presence of a trial, when we become more aware of the eternal reality that there is a greater symphony being written by the great Composer. Christ Himself went through the experience of the Cross with His eyes set on what was to come—the joyful victory that became our greatest gift.

Pray

What sorrowful strain may be present for you in this season? Where can Jesus enter, allowing you to experience all of Him? Take a moment of silence and stillness before God and invite Him to compose His song of joy in you.

This gift of God we’ll cherish well,

That ever joy our hearts shall fill.

How great our joy!

Great our joy!

Praise we the Lord in Heaven on high!

(Friedrich von Spee, “How Great Our Joy,” trans. Theodore Baker)