Gabriel said that John would bring his parents great joy and many would rejoice because of his birth. (Luke 1:14). Later, at his birth, it says that many relatives and neighbors heard and came and shared in Elizabeth's joy. (Luke 1:58)
When Mary came to visit Elizabeth, as she entered the house and greeted her cousin, the baby in Elizabeth's womb leapt for joy. (Luke 1:44) Interesting to see that a six month old fetus can have an emotional response.
The angel told the shepherds that he was bringing them good news of great joy that will be for all people. (Luke 2:10) And after they saw the baby they returned praising God.
We can go on through the Gospels reading about Jesus being full of joy; how the shepherd who finds a lost lamb is filled with joy; how the friend who attends the bridegroom is filled with joy; and Jesus telling the disciples that they will experience His joy.
It is clear that joy is important to God. He created us to experience it. And when we welcome Jesus into our lives, hang around where He is working, or share life with His servants, we find His joy. So during this advent season, my prayer is that His joy will fill all of us and we can share it with others. If you are not experiencing joy right now, make sure you take this opportunity to spend time with Jesus. He will fill you with joy.
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