Reclaiming Joy

Read

Matthew 2:10 “When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.”

Think

The gingerbread house was supposed to be perfect. Carefully planned and brightly decorated, it was meant to be the centerpiece of the holiday table. But as the roof collapsed under too much frosting and the walls crumbled in sticky frustration, the dream fell apart. Similar moments happen every Christmas season—burnt cookies, tangled wrapping paper, and Griswold-style light displays that refuse to light up. The gap between expectation and reality can feel like a punch in the gut, leaving behind disappointment instead of delight.

The holidays are supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, yet so often they feel anything but. The pursuit of perfection—whether through Pinterest-worthy projects or flawless celebrations—can leave hearts weary and joy elusive. How do we reclaim the wonder and joy that Christmas promises?

The story of the wise men in Matthew’s gospel offers a beautiful answer. Their journey was far from perfect. They traveled hundreds of miles, likely facing exhaustion, danger, and uncertainty. Even their destination was unexpected—Jesus wasn’t in a palace, as they might have assumed, but in the humble town of Bethlehem. Yet when the star stopped, Scripture says they were overwhelmed with joy: “When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy” (Matthew 2:10, ESV).

Their joy wasn’t tied to perfection or ease. It came from their focus on the Savior. When they found him, they didn’t dwell on their struggles or unmet expectations. Instead, they bowed in worship, offering their treasures and their hearts.

Christmas joy isn’t found in perfect cookies, flawless lights, or picturesque moments. It’s found in Jesus, the One who steps into the chaos of life to bring peace. When the focus shifts from achieving the ideal holiday to seeking the Savior, true joy begins to fill the heart.

This Christmas, let the story of the wise men remind us where to look. Joy isn’t in the crumbling gingerbread walls or tangled lights—it’s in the One who came to be with us. “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11). Seek him, worship him, and let his joy transform your heart this season.

Apply

Before diving into holiday plans, take a few minutes each morning to thank God for sending Jesus. Write down three things you’re grateful for that remind you of his presence in your life. Gratitude shifts your focus from what’s going wrong to what truly matters.

Pray

Lord, in the middle of the busyness and chaos of the season, help me to keep my focus on you. When things don’t go as planned, remind me that true joy isn’t found in perfection but in your presence. Thank you for sending Jesus to be my Savior, the greatest gift of all. Teach me to worship you like the wise men, offering my heart and my treasures in gratitude. In Jesus’ name, Amen.