From time to time, Sacred Scripture contains verses that give us pause: “Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you encounter various trials” (Jame 1:2) I will admit that while encountering tests and trials, joy is not my instinctual response. Of course, that verse continues: “for you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” (James 1:3) It is a good thing that through trials and testing we gain experience and come to an understanding of our ability to persevere, endure and hope. But I can’t say joy is in the mix. But then perhaps I am a bit confused about what joy truly is, at least in the Biblical sense and am more given to equate joy with the way I am feeling or responding to something in my life.

In today’s reading Jesus says “ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete.” (John 16:24)  This is not the first time in the Farewell Discourse that Jesus has spoken these words. In John 15, amidst the passage of the “Vine and the Branches” as Jesus tells the disciples to remain in Him and follow his commands, because “​​As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love.” (John 15:9) Jesus also tells them the reason why: “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.” (John 15:11)

Joy is an important part of the life of a Christian. Joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit and an essential aspect of the Christian life. It is not merely a fleeting emotion or happiness based on external circumstances but a deep and abiding sense of well-being that comes from a relationship with God.

The joy Jesus speaks of is rooted in the love of God and the knowledge of his saving plan. It is a joy that comes from being united with Christ, participating in his divine life, and experiencing that well-being, the peace that surpasses all understanding. This joy is not dependent on external circumstances but is a gift of God’s grace, which sustains believers even in the midst of trials and suffering. This joy is a result of remaining in Christ, bearing fruit in their lives, and living in communion with God’s love and saving plan.

Anyway, a few preliminary thoughts on Joy. Take a moment to watch a short video on the Biblical meaning of Joy.

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