Rejoice in the Lord
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III spoke about Joy in the Lord, especially during the season of Resurrection, explaining that true joy is spiritual, born of love for God, not physical pleasure or worldly excitement.
Joy vs. Pleasure
He distinguished between pleasure and joy:
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Pleasure belongs to the body—food, sights, music—and is temporary.
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Joy belongs to the spirit—deep, lasting, and rooted in communion with God.
False Joy
The Pope warned against false kinds of joy:
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Rejoicing in another’s fall or misfortune (malicious joy).
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Joy mixed with pride or self-glory (like the disciples rejoicing that demons obeyed them).
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Joy in sin or self-satisfaction, which leads to emptiness.
True Spiritual Joy
True joy is found in the presence of God in one’s life. As Christ told His disciples:
“I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.”
This joy is inward, constant, and unshaken by outward circumstances.
Examples from Scripture
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Joy in God’s Word: “I rejoiced at Your word as one who finds great treasure.”
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Joy of repentance: “It was right that we should make merry and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again.”
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Joy of service: “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are glad.”
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Joy of giving: “God loves a cheerful giver.”
Joy in Serving Others
The Pope stressed that true servants rejoice when others grow in faith, echoing St. John’s words:
“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.”
He taught that joy in others’ success is a sign of a humble and loving heart.
Joy Amid Suffering and Trials
Like St. Paul, who said, “As sorrowful, yet always rejoicing,” believers can find joy even in hardship through faith that God works all things for good.
Joy in Hope and Faith
Believers rejoice in hope because they trust God’s power and timing:
“Let all who trust in You rejoice.”
This hope-based joy is steady and peaceful because it is grounded in faith.
Summary
Joy in the Lord is a spiritual lifestyle, not an emotion. It grows through prayer, repentance, service, and trust in God’s goodness. It is a fruit of the Holy Spirit that fills the heart with light and peace.
