Biblical Foundation for Joy
The angel announced Christ's entrance into the world with "great joy" (Lk 2:10). Jesus, near the end of His time on earth, spoke to His followers, "I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete" (Jn 15:11). Jesus began His public ministry "proclaiming the year of jubilee" or the Lord's favour (Lk 4:18,19). This was prophesied about Him by Isaiah when He would "preach good news to the poor...proclaim freedom for the prisoners, recovery of sight for the blind and release for the oppressed" (Isa 61:1-3). Who wouldn't give a shout of rejoicing when set free from such conditions? "Be joyful always...in all situations give thanks" (1 Thes 5:16,18). This is having an attitude of thanksgiving, not for all things but rather that, notwithstanding the evil in this world, God is in control and will work it out for our good (Rom 8:28).
Follow the example of Jesus who for the joy that would result endured the short-term agony for the long-term gain (Heb 12:2). When Paul was about to be martyred he wrote, "Rejoice always", challenging his readers to think on the "good things" of life (Phil 4:4,8). There is transforming power in praise, even in the midst of trials as we view the final outcome (1 Pet 1:6,7). By viewing life's problems with a true perspective we can know His peace.
Communal Celebration and Testimony
Celebration of life's milestones and significant God moments are not to be kept to ourselves rather openly shared as exuberant times of rejoicing, freedom from cares and anxiety (Ex 15:20; Rom 12:15). Jesus told three parables, each that resulted in the rejoicing and celebrating when what was lost is found – a sheep, a coin, a son (Lk 15:8-31). Church gatherings should be times of celebration as we meet with other Christians and hear the victories won in their lives and we in turn share our testimony of the Lord's goodness to us and worship Him together. Rather than speak about your problems, share what great things God has done for you (Mk 5:19).
Does my face reveal the joy of sins forgiven?
Personal Freedom and Eternal Perspective
Whether we celebrate Christmas and other occasions/holidays is a personal choice, and we are free to follow our own conscience, if we do or don't. Paul's advice is, who are we to judge another person's actions? We are responsible to God for ourselves, not them (Rom 14:4-6). As some celebrations have pagan origins the only guiding principles the Bible gives are avoid anything anti-Christian and do all for the glory of God (1 Cor 10:31; 1 Thes 5:22).
Often a funeral or memorial service of a Christian is termed a celebration. Although overshadowed by grief at their death, there is the joy of knowing that the person who has lived a godly life is free of the confines of this sinful world and is now in the presence of their Lord and Saviour.
Reflection and Application:
- How does your life demonstrate the joy of salvation to others?
- What victories in your life deserve celebration and testimony?
- Are you maintaining an attitude of thanksgiving in all situations?
- How can you create more opportunities for communal celebration in your faith community?