What is Joy? It is more than a fleeting feeling of happiness but is deeply rooted in one’s purpose and faith.
The fruit of the Spirit is . . . joy
Galatians 5:22
Joy, understood through the simple acrostic “Jesus, Others, You,” begins with centering our lives around Jesus. Jesus must come first. This Christ-centered focus brings deep joy that remains steady even when life feels uncertain.
Joy only grows deeper with the simple act of stepping beyond oneself to serve others. It arises from recognizing that small acts of love can have a meaningful impact. Investing in others builds connections that often last a lifetime and reminds us that life is richer when we give of ourselves for God’s work.
When Jesus guides our hearts and we intentionally care for others, our own needs and desires fall into alignment with God’s desires for us.
When Jesus guides our hearts and we intentionally care for others, our own needs and desires fall into alignment with God’s desires for us. This order helps us experience a joy that is full and authentic—a joy that grows not from self-centeredness but from living in alignment with God’s love.
From Jacob Litchfield on J-O-Y
Jesus
In Luke 2 we read that the angel appeared to the shepherds and gave them the best reason for rejoicing and the best antidote to fear: “Fear not, for today the Savior is born.”
Jesus came to save us from the fear of death and the power of sin. This is cause for rejoicing!
Others
In the same passage we read that these glad tidings, the Good News, are for “all people.” This is the reason God’s people do missions around the world, because this good news was not just for the Jews but for all people. Our message is one of joy and freedom to everyone.
You
Finally, the “glad tidings” is not simply a general proclamation to all people, it is good news for you personally! In this season when we remember that a Savior has been born, be sure to receive God’s good news for yourself. It is given to you for your own peace and joy, but, as with the shepherds, it is also given to you personally as a gift to give to others. This Christmas, rejoice in the glad tidings of the Savior who was given to you and to all people.
From the Leiva Family on J-O-Y
Jesus
This Christmas season, our greatest joy is to celebrate Jesus—the One who came to seek and save what was lost. In every service we remind our congregations that He is the reason we serve, preach, and live. His presence has brought new life to many hearts this year, as we see souls saved and believers growing in holiness and faith.
Others
We have found joy in serving others through evangelistic campaigns, vacation Bible schools, and discipleship programs. More than 400 children heard of Jesus during our Bible Schools, and many received Him as their Savior. We also held a special seminar for women with more than 60 participants. Youth and Men’s Ministries continue to grow with meetings, visits, and activities that strengthen the faith, unity, and leadership of each group. Seeing so many lives being built up and transformed is a source of deep joy for us.
You – About Us
As a family, we rejoice in God’s faithfulness and for those of you who pray and support the work in the Dominican Republic. The joy of the Lord is our strength in every challenge, and we continue to trust that the One who began this good work will perfect it. We celebrate His grace and the privilege of being a part of His mission.
From the Judy Sherman on J-O-Y
Jesus
We are going to have a Christmas program at our church, which usually has people come who don’t normally attend services, so it is a great opportunity to show Jesus. This year we have been asked to do the program for the local nursing home as well. We will also be hosting a Christmas gathering with the young people that includes playing games and having a good meal.
Others
Because we are trying to focus on others, instead of the church just buying gifts for all the Sunday school children, we will be doing a gift exchange. Within our own family, we started a share box where we can all add something we want to share with others outside of our home this season. We want to be reminded of how blessed we are and how much God has allowed us to be stewards of, but His blessings are given so we are able to bless others.
You
For many people in ministry, this can be one of the busiest and most stressful times of the year. We are really trying to focus on and enjoy the little moments. Taking time to be recharged with God is so important! Being together as a family is also vital, such as playing with Legos with the children or making Christmas gifts with each other. We are working on focusing on time and experiences more than on material things.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.