It’s everywhere this time of year. Joy. We hear it in songs and see it on wall hangings. We talk about the joy of the Christmas season and the joy that Jesus brings. But what exactly is this joy and where do we get it from?

            In verse ten of chapter eight in Nehemiah, the last phrase tells us: “Do not grieve, because the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Based on the original Hebrew, this phrase quite literally means, may the joy or gladness from Jehovah God be your fortified place.

            And what joy or gladness have we received from God? Jesus. In Matthew 2:10 (CSB) it says, of the wisemen, “When they saw the star, they were overwhelmed with joy.” They knew something magnificent was happening and indeed it was. God sent his only Son down in human flesh, born in a manger, to live a sinless life and ultimately die on the cross for our shortcomings—sins that we should have had to pay for. Jesus not only died, but he rose from the dead, and ascended to heaven. He sent down the Holy Spirit to dwell within believers’ hearts to guide us in all our ways. I would say his great love for us is definitely something to be joyous about.

            Jesus is the Light of the World and the reason we celebrate this season. Have you taken a chance on joy? Do you know and understand all Christ has done for each of us? Jesus is the reason for the season and the joy in our hearts. Don’t forget to experience that joy for yourself.