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About the author: Anne is the mother of two adult sons and a daughter-in-law. She works in ZPC Finance Office and is often seen serving donuts and coffee on Sunday mornings. 

Always be full of joy in the Lord.  I say it again – rejoice!
Philippians 4:4 

O, come, o, come, Emmanuel
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Song of God appears
REJOICE, REJOICE,
Emmanuel”
O Come, O Come Emmanuel

Each time I read the word “REJOICE,” my mind silently sings that refrain of “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.” Reading the lyrics to this hymn I realized that first verse sets the scene of God’s chosen people experiencing happiness of freedom, hope of the Promise Land, and struggles with accepting God was keeping his promise to them despite the challenges they experienced. 

Moses and his followers endured slavery, the harsh desert, hunger and thirst, fear of the unknown, hostile nations, negotiating safe passage, low morale, and waning faith. Much like Moses’s people reveling in their newfound freedom and dreams of the Promise Land, I find it easy to focus on God and his gifts during the good times.  As soon as there is a problem, that happiness takes a backseat to grumbling or trying to take control over the situation. 

I recently heard John Ortberg’s podcast about the difference between JOY and HAPPINESS. He described happiness as being a temporary emotional state in reaction to something happening to us – receiving a gift, being with people we love, acing a test, or watching our favorite team win. On the other hand, JOY is a “deeper enduring reality rooted in a relationship with God.” Happiness may be the smile on our face, but JOY is at the heart of our being.

Happiness comes and goes. It fades as soon as the next external factor causes a new emotion. However, JOY is that peace inside that keeps us steady, knowing God has us covered, no matter what, as long as we place our faith in him. REJOICE in knowing you are right where GOD needs you to be. REJOICE in trusting GOD oversees that you are only given what you can handle, what you can grow into. REJOICE in God’s plan for your life. REJOICE in all the beauty and awe with which God has surrounded you.  

Prayer

Lord,
During the Advent season it may be easier to find happiness amongst all the luster of the holiday – beautiful snowfalls, fun activities all around us, chances to celebrate with family and friends, goodies and treats. Or maybe we feel more of the darkness – loneliness, stress, overwhelming schedules, financial insecurity. No matter which dichotomous emotional state we are feeling in any given moment, please nudge us to focus on the JOY of your Love, Light, and Promise. Keep our hearts and minds in our core everlasting relationship with you. Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again – rejoice!

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