Several things come to my mind. My dog, Roscoe, brings me much joy. Watching children in a Christmas pageant last Sunday night brought me joy. Listening to keyboard Christmas music tonight at a local church filled me with joy. Sitting in front of my Christmas tree looking at the lights brings me joy.
True joy is far deeper than happiness.
Happiness is temporary because it is based on external circumstances, but joy is lasting because it is based on God's presence with us. Christ is our source of all joy and what better time of the year than now to think about how a personal relationship with Him can bring us the joy He promises on a daily basis no matter what the circumstances. As Advent continues and we near the Christmas season, let's focus on the joy that Christ desires for each one of us to have.