Joy . . . In the Sacrifice . . . . In the Giving!

"Joy to the World!" "The Lord has come!"

So why are we not that excited about this? Why are we so tied up in shopping, decorating, cooking and planning this event and that trip, etc? Where is the joy directed and why?

Listen to some of Jesus' last words as He prayed to His Father just before going to the cross:

“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. (John 15:11-13)

Do we find JOY in sacrificially GIVING? Laying aside our desires for the needs of others is basic CHRISTian living. I realize that many GIVE today. I also realize that many of us GIVE out of  obligation and obedience . . . with an intent to be rewarded somehow, someway, somewhere along the line.

Jesus calls us to lay aside our desires for others as a lifestyle. It should not come as an after though or with strings  attached. This not only brings God JOY, but it brings JOY to those whom we serve and to those serving!

Let's bring JOY TO THE WORLD this season!