Abbey Christmas: Joy (Introduction)

Joy - Matt Howell

There are two seductive lies that surround joy specifically when it comes to the Advent and Christmas seasons.  The first lie is - Joy will be found in consumption.  We are prone to believe that maybe the latest gadget, that expensive outfit, the new car, those books, etc. will make me happy.  Americans tend to make New Year’s Resolutions every January because we took a month and gorged ourselves with family dinners, parties, and pastries.  Our indulgence ramps up every December because we believe that if we just acquire and consume enough stuff, we will finally get in on the action of joy.  And every year, joy slips through our fingers sandlike.

The second lie is a response to the first lie - Joy will be found when you give, not receive.  After all, isn’t it better to give than to receive?  On the surface, it sure seems like it. We can buy the presents for others, send out the Christmas cards, host the parties, and volunteer to serve and it gives us a sense of power, superiority, and control.  And deep joy cannot mix with these things present in the human soul. It is frankly easier to give than to receive because receiving requires humility. To receive charity, a compliment, a meal, free grace, or really anything puts you in a position where you cannot return the favor.  It’s you admitting, “I needed this.” Pride remains intact when you are the giver, but pride is decimated when you receive. And joy will only reside in a humble heart.

Advent shows us the way to true joy and it doesn’t involve consumption or giving.   It involves beholding and receiving. Beholding the wondrous mystery of God breaking into the muck of the world as a vulnerable infant.  And then, humbly receiving His love. Advent teaches us that we don’t climb our way up to God, but that He graciously came down to us. All that is left is for us to behold and receive.  May the Lord break into our lives afresh that we might behold and receive Him with newfound joy.