Advent Day Twelve: If Jesus Had Not Come, We Would Not Know Joy

Once upon a time, people flourished with indescribable, constant joy from unhindered, untarnished relationship with their glorious King and Creator. By selfishly leaning on their own understanding, the people sought joy in something other than the King. It ushered them into the bondage of sin, which produced agony.

What if Jesus had not come? We would be in misery with no joy on the horizon..

But Jesus did come!

We see why the well known Christmas Carol declares, “Joy to the world!” It’s in Christ that joy has returned!

“For you make him most blessed forever;

you make him glad with the joy of your presence.”

Psalm 21:6

“These things I have spoken to you,

that my joy may be in you,

and that your joy may be full.”

John 15:11

Today, as believers, we experience sorrow and pain amidst the joy we have in walking with Him. But because He came, we will one day experience pure joy without tears, sorrow, or pain! This time of year can intensify the agony this world delivers. As His own, we can minister to and refresh others. We can cry out to Him as in Psalm 51:12,

“Restore to me the joy of your salvation,

and uphold me with a willing spirit.”

And we can find relief that joy is not tied to our circumstances.

“You have put more joy in my heart

than they have when their grain and wine abound.”

Psalm 4:7

Our warning for the future comes from Proverbs 12:20,

“Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil,

but those who plan peace have joy.”

Peace with God through salvation means joy in His presence. Lord, may we choose joy by coming to Christ and abiding in Him!