I experienced the joy of the Lord at four years old. I was unaware of Scripture like “rejoice always” (1 Thess 5:16) and “the joy of the Lord is my strength” (Neh 8:10). I did not know that joy is a distinguishing characteristic of the kingdom of God (Rom 14:17).
I did know that I was going to heaven! I had trusted Jesus as my Savior at four-and-a-half years old. My parents read a Bible story with me each night. They explained the gospel to me. One night, I told them that I wanted to trust Jesus.
So I trusted Jesus as my Savior. At that age, I’m sure that part of my excitement was about going to heaven to see Jesus. I’m sure my joy was compounded by going to heaven like my Mom and Dad were going to go to heaven.
I believe I had a sense of joy because one of the first things I did was to run next door and tell my best friend, Corky, about it. I told him that he could trust Jesus as well. I do not remember how he replied to all that. We were soon off to climbing the backyard fence.
Jesus is our great source of joy. He is our Rock, our Redeemer, and our Friend. He is Alpha and Omega. Jesus is King of kings and Lord of lords. There is a verse we often read with gratitude during Advent season from the birth narrative of Luke which first informed us of the joy which Jesus brings.
Luke 2:10
Joy exploded across the world when Jesus was born. The angel’s words came true. The Messiah’s birth, life, ministry, death, and resurrection had all been prophesied in the Old Testament. The world was unaware of the implications of His birth, but those who trust in Him have come to know His joy. In His work, Jesus exuded joy. In our lives today, He fills our hearts with joy which leads to great hope.
How have you experienced the joy of the Lord?
I commend the joy of Jesus to you. I exhort you to give thanks for all the ways that Jesus brings you joy, starting with your salvation. You may not be aware of all the ways that He works in and through you but you can depend upon Him for joy.
I invite you to pray for the hearts of the people on the Prayer List today. Ask Jesus to fill them with His joy through the Spirit. I’m glad you are interceding for our church family.
Love and blessings,
Dave