JOY to the World the Lord is Come
O Come, All Ye Faithful … JOYful and triumphant.
JOY!
JOY!
JOY!
These songs are ringing in our ears at this time of the year. Our prayers this week are focusing on that word … JOY. (See Prayer to Choose Joy.) The songs add not only joy, but triumphant joy. Not only are we called to be joyful but triumphantly joyful because the LORD is come. Not has or will, but is. HE is here today and that gives us great delight in knowing HE is present and concerned about our earthly life.
I have been receiving emails and texts asking for an update on my health. I cannot say that I am joyful about my health; but I do think I am definitely rejoicing in the fact that the cancer is not active or growing. I still have those pains from my back, but all of these things have allowed me to enjoy my family, my friends, and my church more lately. I am experiencing great pleasure in the renewal of old friendships, watching the creative side of Christmas come to life, and the pleasure of being with my family as much as possible.
This Christmas season, may you be filled with triumphant joy, knowing that your joy is made full in His presence.
Be happy that you are able to share some of the suffering of Christ. When His shining-greatness is shown, you will be filled with much joy.
1 Peter 4:13 New Life Version (NLV)