Why are some Christians so generous? So encouraging and positive? Why are they so ready to help a colleague, comfort a friend, listen attentively to someone’s story, or seek excellence in everything they do? Why do they seem so joyful? There’s only one Explanation. Today’s reading from Joy to Your World! is from page 23:
“If we are being faithful to grow in God and Jesus Christ, we may expect to know the blessings and promises of eternal life (Jn. 17.3), chief among these being the blessing of joy. Our lives will be coming together and making sense as visible manifestations of the living Christ, the Word and Reason of God, the Bringer of Joy.
“Increasingly, the glory and joy of God will be refracted through us in even the most ordinary situations (1 Cor. 10.31). The evidence of the indwelling Spirit – His fruit, gifts, and power – will be more and more pronounced in us, especially in the manifestation of God’s love and Christ’s joy (Gal. 5.22, 23; 1 Cor. 13.4-7; Heb. 12.1).
“In short, we will actually be witnesses to the reality of Jesus, risen from the dead, because no other explanation can be given for why we do what we do, are what we are, and talk about the things we talk about (Acts 1.8).”
For reflection or discussion
1. What do people see in your life that refracts Jesus to them?
2. Whom can you encourage today by sharing the joy of Jesus with them?
If people don’t see Jesus in us they won’t be likely to hear about Him from us. Joy is the proof that we’re in touch with the Lord and He is manifesting Himself through us. Spread some joy today, and watch the difference it can make. Share today’s podcast with a friend, then get together to discuss what you’ve heard. You can order Joy to Your World! from The Ailbe Bookstore.
T. M. Moore
