You Shall Surely Rejoice - Farag Fr Kyrillos

Spiritual joy is simply the fruit of a real spiritual life. So, anyone who loves the living and true God and loves humankind through God, will bring forth spiritual fruits, especially the fruit of joy.

There are many kinds and expressions of something like joy in this life, but spiritual joy is different. It surpasses them all. It has nothing to do with wealth, health, or achievements. Spiritual joy is about faith, hope and love.

When you trust in God your Father, and you believe in His only begotten Son, the Redeemer and the giver of eternity through His resurrection, and when you trust in the work of the Holy Spirit in your heart, then you shall surely rejoice. When you have earnest hope in the Word of God and you rely totally on His promises, you shall surely rejoice.

When you love God with all your heart, and with all your mind and with all your strength, and you love your fellow human beings as yourself, then you shall surely rejoice.

We need to embrace this joyful life in Christ, even in times of suffering and hardships, not only because it is God's commandment but also His Gift.