But I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice,
and no one will take your joy away from you.
We are meant to have joy in the resurrection of Jesus. It is a different kind of joy than anything else we have ever felt. All other joy comes from things which are temporary. Because the things themselves do not last neither can the joy they give. But in Jesus we find a joy which does last. We discover a treasure which time itself cannot take away. Moth and rust cannot destroy it. In Jesus, death has done its worst. It has tried to pry away this joy like it does all else. But death has failed. Death is defeated. Life, in Jesus, is victorious. So too the joy in that life, united to the Father and the Holy Spirit.
Our belief in the resurrection allows us to overcome fear. It convinces us that there is no obstacle so big that our God cannot handle it. We become free to speak about God. We don't need to become silent because of fear. He is strong enough to defeat death. He is strong enough to bring whatever good work he is doing in us to completion. Nothing can separate us from his love.
Do not be afraid.
Go on speaking, and do not be silent, for I am with you.
No one will attack and harm you,
for I have many people in this city.
Are we afraid? Are we silent? The message is clear: God is with us! Take courage! Be joyful in him and proclaim him!
God mounts his throne amid shouts of joy;
the LORD, amid trumpet blasts.
Sing praise to God, sing praise;
sing praise to our king, sing praise.
The world can see this joy when we live it. Deep inside everyone wants it. And God offers it to all.
Amen, amen, I say to you,
whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you.
Bring us your presence and your joy, LORD Jesus!
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