Spotlight 17: Joy, a quiet confidence in Christ
Is it even possible to experience joy in Christ when we see evil on the rise in society? District Apostle Joseph Ekhuya (East Africa) says yes. In the context of the series "District Apostles write concerning the motto of the year" he explains some possibilities.
Joy is a strong feeling of great pleasure resulting from the confidence and certainty about a situation. It is the quiet voice that speaks from inside saying, now, everything is going to be all right.
While concluding the parable of the lost sheep, Jesus had this to say. “I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.”
It was Elizabeth Clephane in her poem The Ninety and Nine who attempted to bring out the feeling of joy that is contained in the parable of the lost sheep (Luke 15). She was very successful and the hymn has survived over one hundred years. The most exciting part of the poem is in its conclusion when it says repeatedly, “Rejoice, for the Lord brings back His own! Rejoice, for the Lord brings back His own!”
Experiencing joy in Christ does not mean that all is well at the moment, but it is the inner assurance that Jesus Christ is aware and He will take care of everything. This assurance alone is strength. Many times we are saddened when we see the increase in evil in our society. But we should encourage ourselves with the knowledge that Jesus is aware; He will return and bring all this to a beautiful end.
We keep on sacrificing and testifying until the Lord brings in the last soul. On that day we shall hear these words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord.”
