Where is the Joy?

This weekend I was in Wal-mart, and talk about a crazy place! People were everywhere, lines were long and patience was running thin. As I waited to check out, I observed a lady chewing out the cashier, not trusting the total he said she owed. The lady behind me in line was sighing over the long wait, and the lady behind her was complaining about the others who were complaining. I have heard comments from people who have not put up decorations or shopped for presents yet. “I guess I am a ‘Scrooge’ this year” they have said.

Where is the joy? Is Christmas just about Santa Clause, presents, holiday traditions, carols and family time? There is nothing wrong with those things, but they sure don’t seem to be making people very happy.

Perhaps we need to take a lesson from Mary.

Luke 1:46-55 And Mary said, “My soul glorifies the Lord and my Spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me- holy is name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendents forever, even as he said to our fathers”.

Mary had learned of a pretty major change in her life! She was going to have a baby, and not just any baby. She had every right to give into fear or worry or anger, and yet she praised God. She rejoiced in who God is, His character and the ways He had worked in the past.

Perhaps as you prepare for Christmas your life doesn’t seem real rosy. There might be any number of reasons why- related to the holiday or not. Our joy is not found in a season or holiday, but rather in trusting the Mighty One who has done great things for us. Instead of focusing on the stresses or struggles, let’s commit together to focus on what we can praise God for and celebrate His goodness.