Consider the scene: the disciples were grieving because of Jesus’ departure. And they would soon be overwhelmed with sorrow and grief because of His death.

“Therefore you too have grief now; but I will see you again, and your heart will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.” (John 16:22)

After the cross, the disciples huddled together in an upper room, fearful of the religious leaders and temple guard. They were emotionally paralyzed, and they didn’t know how to move forward. In essence, all their hope had been stripped away and crushed. That is, until Jesus revealed Himself to them in person and physically alive. It was then that all things changed and their hope and joy renewed. 

The resurrection of Jesus brings people hope and joy that cannot be taken away. When Jesus conquered sin and death, He ushered in hope for mankind and the beginning of a new age.

The world, our flesh, and even Satan will try to rob us of joy, but nothing can truly take it away. The work of salvation accomplished by Jesus Christ guarantees that. Through the cross and the power of the resurrection, joy can be constant, never to be robbed or revoked. This is a spiritual transformation that God creates at salvation when He renews our hearts. Isaiah spoke of the impact of this transformation in Isaiah 66:14, “Then you will see this, and your heart will be glad, And your bones will flourish like the new grass; and the hand of the Lord will be made known to His servants, But He will be indignant toward His enemies.”

“Joy is not necessarily the absence of suffering, it is the presence of God.” – Sam Storms

May you know the joy of the Lord that comes from the presence of God. May His joy renew your strength as you walk through life. May this hope guide you through all the challenges that come from this world. 

Pastor Cary Wacker