# Let your joy go out to others
*2014-12-16*

> Bill Young reflects on a message from Pope Francis regarding the nature of Christian joy and the patient, redeeming love of God during the season of Advent.

## The Source of Christian Joy

In the words of Pope Francis, we are reminded that Christians should never be people of sadness or give way to discouragement. This joy is not born from the accumulation of possessions, but rather from encounters—specifically, the encounter with Jesus in our midst. Because of Him, we know that we are never alone.

## Strength in Difficult Moments

Even when our life's journey brings us face-to-face with problems and obstacles that seem insurmountable, we accompany and follow Jesus. Our joy and hope stem from the knowledge that He accompanies us and carries us on His shoulders. This is the hope that we must bring to a world that is often sad and despairing.

## The Patience of God

We see this divine patience in the story of the two disciples on the way to Emmaus. They were not abandoned by Jesus; instead, He walked beside them, patiently explaining the Scriptures and staying to share a meal with them. Unlike us, God is not impatient. He does not want everything all at once. Because God loves us, He is able to understand and inspire confidence.

## A Call to Return

Those who love do not give up or burn bridges; they are able to forgive. As Christians, we should reflect this in our own lives. As Isaiah 44:22 says, 'I have swept away your transgressions like a cloud, and your sins like a mist; return to me, for I have redeemed you.' God always waits for us, even when we have left Him behind. He is never far, and if we return to Him, He is ready to embrace us.

*Christian joy is found not in possessions, but in the encounter with a patient God who never abandons us and always welcomes us back.*