“These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.”
The opening words of this verse, “These things”, refers to the preceding verses where Jesus’ indicates we are branches and He is the vine. Then He makes it clear that we are incredibly strong when attached to the vine through obedience, and only fuel for fire when we are not.
Then Jesus addresses the purpose of being attached to the vine. It is to provide us with joy… joy that is full. Does that describe your life?
It is hard to blame people for not being interested in our church if we act no differently than everyone else. Our culture doesn’t seek joy; we seek affirmation for our anger. We want people to approve our hatred for those we disagree with… from social media to the pulpit the message is the same – the only argument is who’s to blame.
If you don’t believe me, look at your chosen news feed and see how much good news you find being promoted today. Compare it to the avalanche of stories intended to bolster your negativity and anxiety and I think you will see my point.
If that feels wrong to you, it is because you were not created to live that way. We were made to joyfully follow the will of our Father. We were created to light the world – not just accusingly point out the darkness.
Let me challenge you today. Apply this verse and choose to be joyful. Refuse to be sucked into the vortex of negativity and anxiety and instead have confidence in your King. Smile and encourage people instead of looking for a debate you can win.
This is not our home, and it is natural not to approve of all that happens here. But we have a destination and it is glorious. You’re on your way to Heaven so focus on that and bring as many people with you as you can.
We all have a choice today – fixate on things that are wrong – or focus on the Savior who will make them right. He came that His joy might be in you, make sure others see it. Watching you enjoy life because you trust God, will change more people than any sermon.
"Some people feel the rain. Others just get wet." – Bob Dylan
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