Joy (not to be confused with happiness) resonates with the promises of Christmas and the coming of Jesus. The depths of joy leads us close to his second coming. Together, let us be enveloped by the musical atmosphere of this year’s Christmas cantata as we come to “jump into joy”.
Cantata: Glory to the Newborn King with the MBC Choir
devotional: The Depth of Joy (Luke 1:39-49) with Rev. Alvin Lau
The Depth of Joy: More Than a Feeling
Some people think of joy as a feeling; joy isn’t the same as happiness. Happiness is an emotion tied to circumstances, but joy runs deeper—it’s rooted in something far greater than fleeting feelings. Joy is not about everything being perfect; it’s about recognizing and anticipating God’s promises.
In Luke 1:39–49, we encounter Mary visiting her cousin Elizabeth after receiving the angel’s announcement that she will bear the Son of God. Elizabeth, already six months pregnant with John the Baptist, feels her child leap in her womb at Mary’s greeting. This moment is charged with joy—not mere happiness, but a profound awareness of God’s unfolding salvation.
The Greek language gives us insight into this richness. There are three levels of joy described in Scripture:
- χαρά – Joy in something good, a pleasant experience, but not necessarily life-changing.
- ἀγαλλίασις – Joy tied to anticipation of God’s promises. Think of the excitement before Christmas morning—the sense that something wonderful is about to happen. Mary and Elizabeth experienced this as they realized God’s salvation was near.
- εὐϕροσύνη – Joy in the fulfillment of God’s promise. In Acts 2:28, after Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension, Peter declares the reality of God’s kingdom. This is joy realized—the promise has come to pass.
Today, we live between anticipation and fulfillment. Christ has come, and His kingdom is growing, yet we await His return. Our joy is both expectant and assured. It’s not dependent on circumstances but on the certainty that God is with us and His salvation is real.
This Christmas season, may you experience the ἀγαλλίασις of anticipation and the εὐϕροσύνη of fulfillment. Even if life feels heavy, remember: joy is not about feeling happy—it’s about knowing that God’s promises are true and His presence is with you.
If you’re unsure what this joy means, ask someone you trust or explore the story of Jesus for yourself. For those who follow Him, let this joy overflow—not as a mask for perfection, but as a testimony that God saves, yesterday, today, and forever.