Joy - is more than being Happy

Luke 2:15-20 NKJV So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. 17 Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. 18 And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.

Nehemiah 8:10 NKJV … Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.

Joy isn't a feeling, a personality trait, or seasonal emotion; joy is a Person, and His name is Jesus Christ.

The shepherds didn't find a throne room or royal procession; they found a baby in a manger. Yet this humble scene brought them profound joy, compelling them to share what they'd witnessed.

Real joy exists independent of circumstances because it's rooted in who stands with us, not where we stand.

You can experience deep joy even in suffering because joy flows from encountering the living Christ.

Please do not confuse happiness (circumstantial) with joy (Christ-centered). The world offers temporary happiness through entertainment and comfort, but Jesus offers lasting joy through His abiding presence.

Today, December 18, 2025, step into His presence, not pretending everything is fine, but bringing your authentic self to the manger where true joy is found.

Merry Christmas in this season of Joy

Lars