June 28

Joy in the Lord

Jesus replied, “How can the guests of the bridegroom fast while He is with them? As long as He is with them, they cannot fast. — Mark 2:19 BSB

This was Jesus’ response to those who criticized His disciples for not being mournful and fasting enough. They thought true religion should be marked by sorrow and gloom. But Jesus showed that mournful faces don’t necessarily mean heart-piety. Should His disciples fast and be sad when He, their joy, was with them? Should Christians go around wearing signs of grief when they are filled with joy and have no reason for sorrow?

Why should someone saved by Christ, rejoicing in the assurance of hope, walk in sackcloth and ashes? Does God want His children to always be sad? Does He love to see us in mourning? Is joy displeasing to Him? Jesus’ words answer these questions—He wants His followers to be glad. True religion is inherently joyful.

Our sins are forgiven, we are adopted into God’s family, and we are heirs of His kingdom. Everything works together for our good, and eternal glory awaits us. With such blessings, why should we be sad? With the assurance of Christ’s love, the hope of heaven, and the knowledge of God’s grace, there’s no reason for a Christian to wear a gloomy face. Instead, we should reflect the joy and radiance of a life redeemed by Christ.