Real Joy

May 22, 2025 - Thursday of the Fifth Week of Easter

John 15:9–11

Everyone wants to be happy. It’s why we scroll, stream, snack, and search. But here’s the thing: what the world calls “happiness” often fades fast. You get the new phone—until a newer one comes out. You hit a high—then feel empty again. Jesus offers something deeper. He calls it joy. And He tells us how to get it.

“I’ve told you this so that my joy may be in you, and your joy may be complete.” (John 15:11)

Jesus connects joy to something surprising: obedience.

Wait—what?

Most of us are taught to think obedience is boring, controlling, or old-fashioned. Everywhere you look, people are praising rebellion: rebel against the rules, question authority, break free from tradition. And sure, sometimes rebellion is needed—especially when there’s injustice. But other times, rebellion becomes just another excuse to do whatever we want. And honestly? That kind of freedom doesn’t always lead to joy. It often leaves us tired, anxious, and lost.

Jesus flips the script. He says: if you really want joy—not just a smile on your face, but deep-down strength—you’ll find it by staying close to Him and living the way He teaches. Love. Forgive. Tell the truth. Be humble. Serve. These aren’t just rules—they’re the path to peace.

The Bible is full of people who found joy not by running from God, but by following Him. The longest Psalm—Psalm 119—is basically one big love letter to God’s commandments. The writer says he delights in God’s laws. Why? Because they lead to life.

The disciples were the same way. They didn’t just talk about joy—they lived it. Even when they were arrested, beaten, or thrown into prison, they rejoiced. Why? Because they were doing what they were made for—sharing Jesus with the world. Saint Paul even wrote his most joy-filled letter (Philippians) from a jail cell!

Joy is a sign that our hearts are aligned with something bigger than ourselves. It’s not fake smiles or ignoring pain. Joy can exist even in suffering—because it’s rooted in Christ’s love, not our circumstances.

And here’s something powerful: the Church calls us to remember joy not once, but twice every year. The third Sunday of Advent is literally called “Rejoicing Sunday.” And during the Easter Vigil, the whole Church sings the Exultet—a song that begins with one big shout: REJOICE! Why? Because Christ has conquered death. Joy wins.

So if you're wondering where to find strength, hope, or peace that lasts—remember this:

The joy of the Lord is your strength. (Nehemiah 8:10)

Rejoice in the Lord always. (Philippians 4:4)

And if you ever feel like your joy is running low, go back to the source.

Stay close to Jesus.

Listen to His words.

Live His way.

Because that is where real joy begins—and where it never ends.