“Let the peace of Christ control your hearts; Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” – Colossians 3:15/16
Merry Christmas! I hope you’re still listening to Christmas carols, turning on the sparkling lights, and celebrating with family and friends, because it’s still Christmas! So many favorite Christmas hymns proclaim God’s joy: “Oh come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant…” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman,” with its “tidings of comfort and joy,” and of course, “Joy to the World.” Joy is God’s gift through the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Specifically, joy (along with peace and mercy) is a “fruit of charity” (CCC 1829).
“The kingdom of God (is)Â righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” -Romans 14:17
This Sunday, we continue our Christmas celebration by centering our attention on the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. We imagine their loving, joyful home as a prayerful place of wholesome work, rest, and togetherness. A place centered on Jesus, where His peace reigns (see Colossians 3:15). Pope Francis said, “True joy comes from a profound harmony among people…this feeling of deep joy is rooted in God, the presence of God in the family, and His love.”
This is such good news for all of us. It shows me that we can grow in joy because it is a gift of the Holy Spirit. We can ask God to bless us with joy and even practice it as a virtue. We can root ourselves in the love of God the Father–the true source of all joy–and be a sign of His presence in our homes, places of work, and in the Church. We can increase in our own joy by bringing joy to others.
Jesus, please continue to teach me Your “lesson of joy” by your coming at Christmas (St. John Henry Newman). Fill me with Your joy, peace, and mercy!