In a few weeks, Christians will begin preparing for the birth of the Savior. Cantatas and other musical offerings will resound in many churches throughout the Advent/Christmas season; worshipers will lift their voices in singing familiar hymns, and among them is sure to be the beloved carol, "Joy to the World." Yet we live in a time when many are hard pressed to find joy in the world. With the ever-present threat of terrorism, nations at war and/or experiencing civil unrest, the occurrence of natural disasters, and newspapers reporting acts of violence on a daily basis, many are wondering if the twenty-first century may be the last.

It is believed that Psalm 98 served as the inspiration for Isaac Watts' (1674-1748) lyrics for "Joy to the World." The concluding verse in the psalm reminds us that God will be honest and fair in judging everyone on the earth - an assurance that is reflected in the fourth stanza of the hymn. God "rules the world with truth and grace," and Psalm 98 praises the LORD as King of the universe. God is in control.

This, too, is Jesus' message to his followers. Despite global unrest, natural disasters, and widespread famine and disease, Jesus says, "don't worry;" those who are faithful to him will be saved (Luke 21:18, 19). Luke 21:5-19 is set within the context of Jesus' apocalyptic, future-oriented discourse with his disciples. Within a few days Jesus will be arrested and put to death. While in Jerusalem, his words to the disciples are designed to prepare them for what they will face because of their faithfulness.

Destruction, persecution, and redemption form the outline for the entire discourse unit (Luke 21:5-38). Jesus prophesies about the destruction of the Temple and Jerusalem itself (21:5, 6, 20-24), the persecution of the disciples (21:12-19), and his coming again at the end of time (21:25-36) when the faithful will "be set free" (21:28, CEV). But before the end, Jesus says, the distressing times are occasion for the faithful to tell about their faith (21:13). It is a time to witness boldly in the face of "all sorts of frightening things" (21:11b, CEV). It is a time to proclaim, "Joy to the world!"

A number of years ago I was a member of a small inner-city church that worshiped in a storefront facility - a humble building where children's art adorned the front windows and where "stain-glassed windows" along the interior walls were works of art by one of the members. The faithful gathered for worship each Sunday. During the week, volunteers dispensed clothing and bread to people in the community. Children stopped by after school and found a safe haven. The worship space moved beyond the walls and into the surrounding mission field as a way to proclaim "Joy to the world!"

The prophet Malachi reminds us that "the day of judgment is certain to come" (4:1a, CEV). But until that day, we are called to witness in Jesus' name. The apostle Paul admonishes us to "never become tired of doing right" (2 Thessalonians 3:13, CEV). And the Son of Man will be pleased (Luke 21:36). Joy to the world! The Lord is come! Amen!