Joyful, Joyful

Henry van Dyke had experienced many inspirational moments, as a navy chaplain, pastor, and author of numerous devotional writings. He also had been an honored politician (as United States Ambassador to Holland and Luxembourg).

But something unexpected happened to him one day in 1907 when he was visiting Massachusetts. Filled with joy at the sight of the Berkshire Mountains, he wrote words that became the powerful hymn, “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee.”

Filled with overwhelming joy at what God was revealing, He described how he adored Him, the “God of glory, Lord of love.” Looking toward Him, our “hearts unfold like flowers before Thee, opening to the sun above.” This joy changed our attitude toward life’s problems. His prayer: “Melt the clouds of sin and sadness; drive the dark of doubt away; giver of immortal gladness, fill us with the light of day!”

He saw God’s works all around, realizing that He was “giving and forgiving, ever blessing, ever blessed.” He was the “Wellspring of the joy of living!” He was our Father, and Christ was our Brother. He asked, “Teach us how to love each other, lift us to the joy divine.”

Then, he invited people everywhere to “join the happy chorus,” marching with joyful music that “leads us Sunward in the triumph song of life.”

He felt the only music that could accompany these words was the “Hymn to Joy” from Ludwig van Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.

Today, in whatever situation you face, remember that God knows what you are going through. The Bible assures us that He is ready to help you be a victor, not a victim. He can give you joy in the midst of every situation.

During this Christmas season, be sure to allow the joy of Jesus to fill your heart. Praise His name.