Joy in His Presence

Lord, You make known to me the Path of life;

You will fill me with Joy in your Presence.

Psalm16:11

Introduction

The season of Advent invites us to anticipate the joy of Christ’s coming. Joy, however, is not confined to the celebration of His birth—it is found in His presence every day. Being in God’s presence renews our hearts and fills us with a joy that rises above any circumstance.

Reflection

Joy is a fruit of abiding in God’s presence. It is not a fleeting emotion but a deep, abiding sense of delight rooted in His nearness. Dallas Willard once wrote, “The soul is made to be at home in God.” In His presence, we are restored, healed, and filled with peace. Thomas Aquinas observed, “Man cannot live without joy; therefore, when deprived of true spiritual joys, it is necessary he become addicted to carnal pleasures.” The joy found in God’s presence is the answer to our deepest longings, a joy that the world cannot imitate or replace.

Brother Lawrence expressed it beautifully: “There is not in the world a kind of life more sweet and delightful than that of a continual conversation with God.” This unbroken fellowship with Him brings a quiet joy that sustains us, grounding our souls in His love and purpose. Through this “continual conversation,” we are reminded that God is not distant but present in every moment, whether mundane or extraordinary. It is in this closeness that we experience a joy beyond circumstances—a joy that overflows from simply being with Him.

R.T. Kendall reminds us, “When God shows up, joy shows up.” The moments when we intentionally seek Him—in prayer, in the Word, or in stillness—are when our hearts are most alive. Personally, I’ve experienced this joy when surrendering burdens in prayer, letting His peace fill the empty spaces of my heart. The busyness of life often tempts us to overlook these moments, yet Advent is a time to pause and bask in His presence, where true joy abounds.

Question for Reflection

How can you cultivate a greater awareness of God’s presence in your daily life to experience the fullness of joy?

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

In Your presence is the fullness of joy. Help me to seek You above all else, to find rest and delight in Your nearness. Remove distractions and open my heart to experience the deep, abiding joy that comes only from You. Prepare me this Advent season to welcome Christ anew. Amen.

Deus Caritas Est