Friday after the Ascension of the Lord.
Bible Study: Acts 18:9-18, Psalm 47 and John 16:20-23.
“When a woman is in travail she has sorrow because her hour has come; but when she is delivered of the child, she no longer remembers the anguish, for the joy that a child is born into the world.” (John 16:21)
Our short time on earth is like the nine-month period of carrying a pregnancy. It always tough for any woman but the joy of eventually carrying her child relieves all the pain. The joy of joining in the heavenly banquet after our short time on earth will be so much that would forget whatever pain we have to go through for the sake of God at this moment.
Surely, there would be some moments of joy right here on earth. Being a Christian is not a condemnation to pain. Even Jesus had his moments of joy. For instance, when the seventy returned after accomplishing the work of mission, Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit. (Luke 10:20). As St. Paul would say to the Philippians: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.” (Philippians 4:4).
For a whole year and six months, Paul went about the city of Corinth preaching the Good News of salvation freely. God told him in a vision: “Do not be afraid, but speak and do not be silent, for I am with you, and no man shall attack you to harm you.” But this time was limited.
Happiness on earth is always limited. Let’s face it, no matter how hard we try, we cannot really rejoice “always.” Certain events will definitely make us cry. And again, there is no amount of joy we experience now that can equal even a little bit of the joy we shall have in heaven.
As Jesus puts it: “So you have sorrow now, but I will see you again and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you. In that day you will ask nothing of me.” (John 16:22-23). In other words, as long as we live on earth, happiness remains fleeting but when that day comes - the day we shall be united to God; no one will be able to take our joy from us.
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, fill me with holy joy. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you.