Having grown up in the church of Jesus Christ, joy is a theme that seems to resonate often in my soul. I am joyful that God made me. I am joyful that God claims me as one of God’s own children. I am joyful that God has saved me through Jesus Christ. One song that comes to my mind and heart when I think about all that God has done for me, Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee.

The third stanza of Joyful, Joyful call us to join that choir of God’s children:

Mortals, join the happy chorus Which the morning stars began
Love divine is reigning o’er us, joining all in heaven’s plan.
Ever singing, march we onward, Victors in the midst of strife,
Joyful music leads us sun-ward In the triumph song of life.

The prophet Isaiah painted a picture of dreams coming for God’s people, and their response was joy:

Isaiah 35:10

¹⁰ And the ransomed of the Lord shall return,
and come to Zion with singing;
everlasting joy shall be upon their heads;
they shall obtain joy and gladness,
and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

That’s where you and I belong, in the happy chorus!

Prayer

Wonderful God, when I think of what you have done for me in Jesus Christ, the joy abounds! Hear my song of praise. Amen.