December 2011 Newsletter

JOY: A Christmas Devotional by Pat Harley

I saw a Christmas card this past week with the word JOY written across the top and a picture of a snowman underneath. It was intriguing to say the least as I pondered how the two were connected. I have made many snowmen in my life but I have to confess, though it did provide a modicum of fun, I can't say it pushed me into the realm of JOY. Since then I have observed that word being thrown around in abandon as we near the Christmas season. But though everyone wants it few truly have it.

In Scripture we are given many reasons to be joyful but the very best one is this:

"If you keep My commandments you will abide in My love......These things I have spoken to you that My joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.* Now THAT is a lot of joy! It sure beats making a snowman!

So this Christmas if I want to experience the greatest amount of joy what must I do? Jesus sums it up like this:

Love God with all that you have.
Love others as yourself.
Pretty simple.

But in this simple statement is a clear guideline for obtaining joy, not in building a snowman or singing carols, or entertaining friends but in something entirely different.

Let's take a look:

J is for Jesus. Revere Him alone. This keeps the focus on the main point. In all that we do during this time of celebration it should honor God - in the way we celebrate, spend money and entertain ourselves.

O is for Others. Reflect His glory. As we are the hands and feet of Christ, this season gives us ample opportunity to show His love in more tangible ways as we open our heart and home to those around us.

Y is for You. Refresh your soul. Our Savior has given us His living Word that is a source of refreshment and restoration. This season take time to refresh your soul in His Truth.

JOY: Jesus. Others. You.

It's a pretty easy way to remind ourselves of the reason for the season.

*John 15:10, 11