JoySample

Joy Defined: Future Hope

Joy to the world… let every heart prepare him room.

The celebration of Christmas centers around the idea of Advent or arrival. As we prepare ourselves for Christmas morning, we catch a glimpse of the anticipation that God’s people had experienced as they waited for the promised Messiah.

The arrival of the Messiah had been foretold for generations before Jesus’ birth. Every Israelite would have grown up learning the prophecies and looking forward to their fulfillment, including the shepherds.

Imagine their shock when the angel appeared to them out of nowhere and surrounded by the brightness of God’s glory.

Don’t be afraid, I’ve got amazing news that will bring joy to all people. The Savior was born today! Go and see for yourselves!

After seeing the heavenly hosts and finding the infant Messiah, the joy of the shepherds overflowed. They told everyone who would listen to what had happened and what the angel had said. Then, they went back to their flocks glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen.

Their long-awaited hope had been realized. And joy resulted.

The good news for the shepherds is good news for you and me. Our future hope of Jesus’ return is just as sure as the reality of his birth that night so long ago. Whereas the shepherds rejoiced over his first arrival, we rejoice that his return will surely come.

This principle is taught in 1 Peter, where we’re urged to endure the trials of life with the future in mind. We cannot see Jesus in the flesh now, but we are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy as we wait for his return! This is the very heart of Advent: looking back to the manger and forward to the Messiah’s return.

Reflection: What is the connection between my future hope in Jesus and the joy available to me for daily life? In this Advent season, how can I prepare my heart for Jesus’ return?

Prayer: Lord, thank you for this season that vividly reminds me of your first arrival and points me towards the certainty of your return. Help me experience an inexpressible joy as I wait to see you face to face.