DECEMBER 2024

Dear Church,

What does the word ‘JOY’ mean to us?

As we enter the Christmas season—a time often synonymous with joy—it is worth reflecting on its true meaning. G.K. Chesterton once said, “Joy, which was the small publicity of the pagan, is the gigantic secret of the Christian.” But what is this “gigantic secret”?

Joy is found in God's presence: Psalm 16:11 states, “In your presence is fullness of joy.” Joy is found by spending time in God's presence, delighting in him. Yet, the blur of busy family schedules, particularly around Christmas, presses in and keeps us from entering all that He has for us, including a joyful disposition. One way to combat this is by setting aside time to worship together as a family, singing carols and reading passages about Christ's birth.

Joy flows from thankfulness: It is easy to lose sight of gratitude when we are tired, overwhelmed, or caught up in the hustle of the season. But thankfulness unlocks joy. Take a moment each day to reflect on God’s blessings. Write them down, either alone or with your family. As gratitude grows, so does joy - overflowing beyond Christmas into every part of the year. When we focus on His goodness, our burdens feel lighter, and our hearts are renewed.

Joy must be chosen: “Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the LORD is your strength!” (Neh. 8:10). Joy is more than a feeling; it is a choice. Satan aims to steal our joy because he knows it’s a source of strength. Choosing joy starts with gratitude. When we thank God for His blessings, we enter His presence, and in His presence, we find joy. This Christmas, we can choose to focus on the stresses of the season - or we can celebrate the joy that came into the world through a manger.

Joy is not dependent on our situation: Steven Furtick says, “My joy is not determined by what happens TO me, but what Christ is doing IN me and THROUGH me.” Even in trials, we are called to “count it all joy” (James 1:2). How? By trusting in the bigger picture. No matter what difficulties we face, we know the end of the story: Jesus has already secured our victory. This truth fills us with deep, lasting joy - the kind that carries us through life’s challenges.
Make a joyful noise unto the Lord! Gladly pronounce the goodness of God in our life!

Joyous Christmas and blessings to you all!
Amutha