Have you ever wondered where true Christmas joy comes from? Is it found in twinkling lights, festive decorations, or carefully wrapped presents? While these things can bring happiness, Simeon’s story in the Bible reveals a deeper, more lasting source of joy. Let’s explore this often-overlooked character from the Christmas narrative and discover the secret to genuine, eternal joy.

The Unexpected Christmas Hero

In Luke chapter 2, we’re introduced to a man named Simeon. He’s not typically the first person we think of when we consider the Christmas story, but his encounter with the baby Jesus offers profound insights into the nature of true joy.

Luke 2:25-26 tells us, “There was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking forward to Israel’s consolation, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah (CSB).”

Simeon’s story takes place in a spiritually dry time. It had been 400 years since God had spoken to His people. Yet, Simeon remained faithful, eagerly anticipating the promised Messiah.

The Source of Lasting Joy

As we examine Simeon’s encounter with Jesus, we can identify three key principles about Christmas joy:

1. Christmas Joy Comes from a Life Surrendered to Christ’s Lordship

Luke describes Simeon as “just and devout” (Luke 2:25). This means he was fully committed to God, even in a time of spiritual drought. His joy wasn’t dependent on circumstances but on his relationship with the Lord.

We see a similar principle in Nehemiah 8:10, which declares, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” True joy flows from a life surrendered to God’s lordship.

2. Christmas Joy Can Only Be Found in Jesus

Throughout the Christmas story, we see the work of the Holy Spirit. In Simeon’s case, “the Holy Spirit was upon him” (Luke 2:25). This intimate relationship with God allowed Simeon to recognize and rejoice in Christ’s child.

Galatians 5:22 reminds us that joy is a fruit of the Spirit. It’s not something we can manufacture or purchase; it’s a natural outcome of a life filled with the Holy Spirit.

3. Christmas Joy is Not Seasonal but Eternal

When Simeon finally saw Jesus, he exclaimed, “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation” (Luke 2:29-30). Simeon’s joy wasn’t tied to a season or a fleeting moment. It was rooted in the eternal salvation that Jesus brings.

As Isaac Watts beautifully penned in the hymn “Joy to the World”:

“Joy to the world, the Lord has come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And heaven and nature sing.”

Putting It Into Practice

So, how can we experience this true Christmas joy? Here are two questions to ponder:

1. Are you ready to die?
2. Are you ready to live?

These might seem like heavy questions for the Christmas season, but they get to the heart of what really matters. Simeon was ready for both because he had encountered Jesus.

You have probably heard this prayer as a child: “Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep. If I should die before I wake, I pray the Lord my soul to take.” While this can often be something partially fearful, it can and will ultimately lead us to find security in Jesus Christ.

As we celebrate Christmas, let’s remember that true joy isn’t found in seasonal trappings but in a relationship with Jesus. He said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).

This Christmas, may we, like Simeon, recognize Jesus for who He is. May we surrender our lives to His lordship, seek joy in Him alone, and embrace the eternal perspective that comes from knowing Him. That’s where we’ll find true Christmas joy – joy that lasts long after the decorations are packed away.

This blog post was adapted by Molly Atkins from ClearView Baptist Church’s sermon by Dr. Randy Davis on December 15, 2024. To watch the full sermon, click HERE.