January 13, 2025
Wendy’s launched an advertising campaign in 1984 featuring 81-year-old Clara Peller. Upon being served a small hamburger patty on a large bun, this elderly manicurist/beautician asks, “Where’s the beef?” These commercials became a cultural sensation, with Wendy’s annual revenue increasing by 31%.
Forty years later, one wonders, “Where’s the joy?” Has there ever been a time when we’ve had more, yet are enjoying it less? Such a question should be considered by the Christian community specifically. Christ gave His life in order that our sins would be forgiven. As a result, the Holy Spirit lives in us. Yet, all too often, we’re missing out on the abundant life that could be ours.
I have in my sermon illustration file a survey that includes several factors that attract unsaved people to our churches. Number one on the list is “joy demonstrated in the lives of Christians in every area.” People are hungry for something that only a relationship with Jesus and a connection with a community of believers can provide.
The Old Testament book of Nehemiah tells of the wall around Jerusalem being rebuilt in 52 days. Upon completion of the project, a dedication service was held featuring, among other things, a reading of the law. When the people present heard the words spoken by Ezra the priest, they wept. At that point, Nehemiah said, “This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep … Go, send portions to him who has nothing prepared … Do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:9,10 NASB). Despite their humble state of conviction, this was to be a time of celebration.
David writes, “You have filled my heart with greater joy than when grain and new wine abound. But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices … You fill me with joy in your presence” (Psalm 4:7, 5:11, 16:9, 11, NIV).
Listed prominently among the fruit of the Spirit is joy. Paul also writes, “rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say, rejoice” (Galatians 5:22, Philippians 4:4 NASB). Note the word “always.” This includes the troubling seasons of our lives, as well as the favorable ones.
It is, in fact, during times of difficulty that we should dig deep and do our best to muster up an attitude of jubilation and delight. As Scripture says, “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:2-4 NASB). As one dear saint wisely declared, “I could have done without many pleasures, but could not have spared one sorrow that God allowed to come into my life!”
Author Leo Buscaglia recalls this memorable account of a “misery dinner.” It was the night after his father came home and told the family he faced bankruptcy because his partner had stolen their firm’s funds. Promptly, his mother went out and sold some of her jewelry to provide food for a delicious feast. Despite criticism from some, she declared, “The time for joy is now, when we need it most, not next week.” Her courageous act bolstered the family.
You may be thinking, “That’s a sweet story pastor, but I’m just not feeling it.” It’s not a matter of feelings, but rather faith. Feelings ebb and flow, often depending on mood and circumstances. Faith recognizes that whereas, “Weeping may last for the night, joy comes in the morning” (Psalm 30:5 NASB).
Discover what only Christ can provide. The time for joy is now!
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Rev. Gaddis has been a pastor for over 34 years, 25 of those in GA. He lives in Athens and can be reached at jtoddgaddis@gmail.com.
