Pastor's Desk
December 11 , 2005
THIS PAST WEEK the movie, “The Chronicles of Narnia,” was released in theatres across North America. It is based on a set of books written by C. S. Lewis for children as a Christian allegory. He believed that the best way to communicate spiritual principles to children was through stories and apparently did so intentionally through these books. No doubt this movie will help people to think about Jesus, who is represented in the “Chronicles” by the great lion, Aslan.
But there is another reason that I bring up C. S. Lewis. In his autobiography, “Surprised by Joy,” he describes how he, being a former atheist, came to faith in Christ. He speaks of glimpses of joy at various points in his life which turned out to be veritable signposts directing him towards a relationship with Jesus Christ. This third week of Advent focuses on JOY. As the angel proclaimed to the shepherds of the Bethelem hills, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10, 11) The message from God through Jesus is a message that brings joy to our hearts. True joy is when heaven comes down and floods our souls. It speaks of salvation and well-being. In its present form it is the hope of what is yet to come.
Joy is best experienced when it is shared. Joyful sharing of the good news of Jesus Christ was the hallmark of the early Christians. No one had to force them to be witnesses—they just were. The joy of the Lord bubbled over in their lives. It was contagious. Not even persecution could stop them. “They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ.” (Acts 5:40-42) Let us take to heart the words of Paul, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)
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Though you have not seen him, you love him;
and even though you do not see him now,
you believe in him
and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy,
for you are receiving the goal of your faith,the salvation of your souls.
This page was last updated on Friday, December 9, 2005