Don't worry, be . . .

There were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:8–11

The angel announced “good news of great joy,” Jesus. Throughout the Bible we read about joy – often in situations where people were in the midst of difficult circumstances, circumstances where they clearly were not happy. In the Old Testament we see the people of God waiting for the joy that would come with the arrival of the Savior. In the New Testament, we see a people living with the joy of that Savior, while at the same time, still waiting for things to be set right, still waiting for the perfect joy and for happiness.

As you read this, you may be in a season of happiness and joy, where joy is clearly visible, where joy overflows. That is a grace, be thankful. For others of you, it is harder. You definitely are not happy and although you know there is joy in you somewhere, only those closest to you can see it – it is a tough season. There is not a right or a wrong way to be. The answer is not to put on an outward mask, but to be sustained by the joy that though many may not see, you know is there. The prophet Nehemiah writes, “The joy of the LORD is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10) I pray that you may be strengthened in his joy, and strengthened by people who are close to you, for you and not expecting you to act happy.

You see, happiness and joy are not the same; happiness is transient, joy is transcendent. Happiness is dependent on circumstances; joy is built up within us and sustains us in all circumstances. On this side of the Kingdom of God, happiness and joy do not always co-exist. When God's Kingdom is fully realized, happiness and joy will both be present, always.

Peace. Hope. Joy. Love

Doug