The Apostle John writes in his book of 1 John 1:4, "These things we write to you that your joy might be full."
Jesus is our joy. Sometimes, we do not realize that fact. We all look for joy in something else. We may play sports, travel around the world, go to the movies, get married, or whatever, to find joy. But all those things may seem elusive. Real joy is found in the person of Jesus Christ. Knowing Him as our Lord and Savior, inviting Him into our life is the beginning of real joy.

There is a difference between "fun" and "joy." Fun is temporary, but joy is lasting. Having fun is a part of life, and we all need it. But joy comes from deep within and does not depend on whether or not the sun is shining or it is raining. It is not circumstantial.

How many times have you heard someone say when you ask them how they are doing, "Well ok, considering the circumstances"? I say again, joy is not circumstantial. Now, everyone has a bad day every now and then. None of us is immune from that. But even during the bad times, we can have inward joy.

The reason we can have joy in all circumstances is that we have a relationship and fellowship with God and with His Son, Jesus Christ. The angel told the shepherds, "Behold! I bring you good tidings of great joy." The joy in life was born that first Christmas in a Bethlehem manger. He grew up, lived a sinless life, died upon a Cross for the sins of humanity, rose from the grave, and is coming again. He offers eternal life and joy to those who receive Him. He comes into our life by invitation. He will not force himself upon us. He knocks, but we must open.

John also tells us in these verses (v.5-7) that He is the Light of the World. Don't you just love the lights at Christmas time? We love to ride around and look at the lights. They remind us that He truly is the Light. His light will guide us, His joy will fill us.

Someone shared an acrostic with me once: J (Jesus first), O (others next), Y (yourself last). That is how you spell real joy.

Don't miss the meaning of the manger this year. Let Him fill your heart with genuine joy.

Merry Christmas! Peace on earth, good will to men.

Dr. Ken Moore is pastor of Morgan’s Chapel and President of KMEM Min-istries, International.