Yesterday, in our LCM SCS class, we talked about the difference between "joy" and "happiness." As a way of addressing this, I referred to the book of Philippians. Little did I know that when I turned to my Lectionary this morning, it would direct me to Philippians 1:1-11.
Paul speaks of joy in this book. Paul writes this book while in prison. Thus, we have a statement on the difference between joy and happiness.
We seek happiness. We want to be happy. We want things to go well in our lives. Happiness depends upon the waxing and waning of our good fortune.
Joy is something different. Joy is knowing that our lives have meaning beyond the horizons we are capable of seeing. Joy is the confidence which comes from being connected to that which is larger than ourselves.
Paul could be overcome with joy, even though the circumstances of his life would bring him no happiness. He could remain overcome with joy, even as he faced an uncertain future.
We spend far too much time searching for happiness. What we need to seek is joy. The joy of Christ which fills our hearts
Pastor Chris
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