Joy in the Lord
The lecture reminds that Christianity is not a life of sorrow but an invitation to true continuous joy “in the Lord.” Christian joy differs from worldly cheer; it is a fruit of the Holy Spirit and appears in victory over sin, repentance, enjoying our church duties and the mysteries of faith (baptism, communion, prayers and feasts). True joy springs from God’s presence and His salvation, from sharing people’s joy with one another, and from hope in God’s promises.
Kinds of false joy:
The lecture explains several false joys to avoid: joy in fulfilling bodily lusts, in wealth, position and fame, in pride or in gifts that lead to self-reliance, gloating at the fall of enemies, and joy in frivolity and revelry. These joys can lead to pride and spiritual downfall.
True spiritual joy:
The joy that pleases God is joy in virtue, joy in victory over sins, joy in repentance and the return of the lost, joy in participation in the church mysteries, and joy in the spread and success of the Word of God. Spiritual joy is humble, does not boast, and attributes every grace and success to God not to the self.
Practical and educational dimensions:
- Encouragement and hope: revive hope in the weak and fight despair with a word of encouragement.
- Sincerely sharing others’ joy (not with cold words), showing genuine feelings that cheer hearts.
- Valuing church duties and mysteries as sources of lasting joy.
- Obedience to the spiritual guide to bring joy to the guide’s heart and to the success of spiritual life.
Coptic Orthodox spiritual conclusion:
The message calls for a sacred joy that springs from a living relationship with Christ, from salvation and hope in God’s promises, and from serving and loving others. Joy is a fruit of the Spirit and the human ability to turn pain and trial into a source of piety and hope, and it calls for repentance, participation, and a spiritual manner in celebrations and sacraments.
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