Like a new teddy-bear in the hands of a small child, like the trip home from the hospital with a first-born in one's arms, like a sunrise in vibrant colours over a body of water--so is the joy of the Christian life. Jesus calls it a "pearl of great price" (Matt.13:46) for which a person would be willing to give everything he owns in order to attain it. Too bad most folks haven't found it--or worse still, do not know it exists!
Jesus calls it being "born again" (John 3:3), theologians call it `conversion,' some call it `saved' or 'second birth.' Regardless of name, it is a complete reconstruction of one's thought patterns and a new reason for living. Instead of living for self, the desire to assist God in bringing His Kingdom to earth assumes top priority. One's total energy is devoted to telling others about the beautiful treasure he found, and his money and his talents are used in the service of his Lord.
Jesus was once asked, "How can a man be born when he is old"? (John 3:4) When a baby is born he enters into a physical world; when a Christian is born he enters into a spiritual world. Conversion is an act of the Holy Spirit upon the life of a person who sincerely says, "Yes, I give my life to Jesus. I am sorry for my sins." While an individual must make the decision, the miracle itself is not of man, but a gift from Jesus.
As in the case of a physical birth, a spiritual birth presents the world with a baby. Just as a new-born infant requires nourishment, so the new-born Christian must be fed by the reading of God's Word and in meeting with other Christians. If not cared for he will die just as a baby dies if not given his milk. If fed properly, he will grow into "Christ's full stature" (Eph.4:13 GNV).
As a Christian matures in the faith, he becomes filled with more and more joy. He talks to His Lord as to a Friend, and knows that his prayers will be answered in the way that will be best for his spiritual growth. He loves others with God's love, and while he may weep for them, he is happy as he looks forward to a promised day when there will be no more tears or pain (Rev.21:4).
It can be said of such people, "The joy of the Lord is their strength" (Neh.8:10).
Would that all men could find this pearl of great price!
© 1999, Doreen Palmer