Bible Verse: “As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.” Luke 1:44
Scripture Reading: Luke 1:39-45; Isaiah 62:1-3
Lots of people experienced joy when they encountered Jesus.
The woman at the well (John 4), blind Bartimaeus (Mark 10), and Zacchaeus (Luke 19) are just a few in Jesus’ adult years.
When He was an infant, He still brought joy to many. The shepherds, the wise men, Simeon, and Anna were all filled with joy when they encountered Jesus (Matthew 2; Luke 2).
Maybe the most remarkable example of joy was John the Baptist, who was still in his mother’s womb. Mary showed up at Elizabeth’s house, both women pregnant, and little John leapt for joy when Jesus was near (Luke 1:39-45).
It was prophesied several hundred years earlier that Jesus would have this effect on people. His purpose in coming was…
To comfort all who mourn and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. (Isaiah 61:2-3)
Jesus is still the same today. Sadly, for lots of people, Jesus is often associated with “religion,” with a list of do’s and, more often, don’ts. The thought is that to be a true Christian, you have to be dour and stuffy, say “no” to fun and enjoyment, and agree that seriousness is the best way to relate to God.
This is different from what Jesus had in mind. Those who encounter Him should, of all people, be the most joyful!
I gave my life to Jesus when I was a young boy. Was I just setting myself up for a boring high school, college, and young adult career? Nothing has been farther from the truth.
When Jesus said that He came that we might have life to the full (John 10:10), He meant it.
He has opened the doors for many wondrous adventures, meaningful relationships, forgiveness, hope and love. Whenever and wherever I encounter Him, I am filled with joy.
The key is not to try to be happy; the key is to encounter Jesus.
Prayer: Jesus, you are the One who brings true joy into my life. I can get so busy that I ignore You. It’s not that You have left me, but I have disregarded Your amazing Presence. So, help me turn back towards You. I need to see You because the things that I have been trying to find happiness in have left me disappointed. Thank you for being the true source of joy. Amen.
Reflection: Have you encountered Jesus lately? Or has He been reduced to a religious thing you do once a week? He promised that if we seek Him with all our hearts, we will find Him (Jeremiah 29:13). And when you find Him, encounter Him, interact with Him, and involve Him, He will fill your life with joy.
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