Tis the Season

I wonder how much of the joy we have during this season is really real. Are the smiles on everyones faces real or are they force out? What if the gift someone gets you is not something you like or want.Will you ask them for the receipt? I know what your thinking! It`s the thought that counts; but the other person may think well you don`t think much of me. During this time of year we see a lot of external joy which only last for a season. People sometimes that have been at odds with each other all year falsely come together for the sake of the holidays. Do you remember the song Smiling Faces sometimes they don`t tell the truth, well thats real. I was reading the other day about a man name Philip who went to a city and preached Christ and all the people who received him were healed, freed from bondage and there was great joy in the city. If real joy is missing then the intent and the purpose have to be missing. It`s like cracking eggs and putting them into the washing machine. If Christ is received then the joy becomes internal joy and eternal joy that rest inside of you no matter what. This kind of joy when it is in you, it pushes out hate and strife and sorrow and gives you freedom to live the good life even when you get socks for Christmas. This joy causes you to bring real joy to someone else. Think for moment; have you really unwrapped the gift of Christ. Is your relationship with him really real .He is the real joy that is the strength of life.