Joy is expressed in so many ways . . . from the laughter of a child to the screaming of a rabid sports fan.  We all have unique ways of getting our joy on.  I know I jump for joy every time Ann tells me I’m right (oddly though, I don’t get to jump very often – what’s up with that?).  We pretty much know how to fulfill our own “joy” needs, don’t we?  From youngsters to seniors, we as a culture are fixated on how we can fill our personal “joy” tank.

Christians are different though, right?  Or at least we should be.  Our goal or rather our passion is fixed upon bringing joy to another – our Lord.  As disciples, we soon discover that this longing to give the gift of joy to our King is fulfilled in two ways, surrender and service.

Surrender requires brokenness.  As the Psalmist says, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.”  It is right here where a priority shift takes place and we become motivated by pleasing or bringing joy to our Creator through our service.

“Joy to the world the Lord is come, let earth receive her King.”  We jump for joy upon understanding that this King, this Jesus is our salvation!  We find true joy in laying down our lives for Him, experiencing a passion never before dreamed of through our service.  His “joy-bringing” continues every time we share the story – our story – of how this Redeemer changed our lives!

This Christmas, bring joy to the world by serving your King!

–Dale