Let’s face it: life can sometimes feel like a circus where we’re the juggling act—and not a very good one. Balls are dropping left and right, the clowns of stress and worry are honking in the background, and we’re just trying to keep it all together. In the midst of life’s chaos, the promise of joy might seem like an overhyped product: “Sure, sure, I’ve heard it before, but where’s the proof?” Well, the gospel of Jesus Christ doesn’t just promise joy—it delivers it in abundance, if we’re willing to unwrap the gift.
Elder Patrick Kearon, in his talk "Welcome to the Church of Joy," reminds us that joy isn’t some pie-in-the-sky fantasy. It’s real, it’s attainable, and it’s centered in Jesus Christ. Let’s explore why we need a Savior, how Jesus Christ fulfills that need, and how He turns life’s circus into a celebration.
What Is Joy in Jesus Christ?
Let’s start with what joy isn’t: it’s not the thrill of finding an extra fry at the bottom of the bag (though that is a special kind of happiness). Joy in Jesus Christ is much deeper and longer-lasting. It’s the kind of joy that sticks with you even when the fries are gone and life hands you a soggy burger instead.
Elder Kearon said, “Joy comes from and because of [Jesus Christ],” reminding us that joy isn’t tied to our circumstances but to our relationship with Him. In John 15:11, Jesus said, “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” His joy doesn’t come and go like trends or TikTok dances—it’s the constant peace and assurance that He is with us.
Why Do We Need a Christ?
Picture this: You’re in quicksand. You’ve tried everything—grabbing a stick, yelling for help, doing that awkward thing where you try to lie flat and crawl out—but nothing works. You can’t save yourself. Now, imagine someone comes along, throws you a rope, and pulls you out. That’s why we need Christ. We’re all stuck in the spiritual quicksand of sin and mortality, and there’s no YouTube tutorial that can fix it.
Paul summed it up: “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Jesus Christ is the only one who can rescue us. Through His Atonement, He paid the price for our sins, giving us a way to be forgiven. He conquered death, promising us resurrection. Without Him, we’d be stuck, spiritually and eternally. With Him? We’re pulled to safety, cleaned up, and given the strength to keep going.
How Does Knowing Christ Bring Us Joy?
Now that we’re out of the quicksand, let’s talk about the joy that follows. Here’s how knowing Christ can transform our lives:
1. Forgiveness and Peace
You know that feeling when you clean out your closet and suddenly the world feels a little brighter? That’s a tiny taste of what forgiveness feels like—except instead of just decluttering your wardrobe, Christ clears out the shame, guilt, and regrets that weigh us down. Isaiah put it beautifully: “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow” (Isaiah 1:18). Forgiveness brings a peace that no trip to IKEA can match.
2. Hope in Trials
Let’s be honest: life throws curveballs. (Some days, it feels like it’s throwing flaming dodgeballs.) But Christ offers hope and strength to endure. When we trust Him, we can find purpose in our pain and know that better days are ahead. Think of Him as your ultimate life coach—except He’s never wrong, and His pep talks actually work.
3. Purpose and Direction
Ever felt like you’re on a treadmill going nowhere? Christ steps in, presses pause, and hands you a map. Through His teachings, we find meaning and purpose in life. He reminds us to focus on what really matters—loving God, serving others, and preparing for eternity.
4. Eternal Perspective
Spoiler alert: death isn’t the end of the story. Because of Christ, we know that resurrection and eternal life are real. This hope brings joy even in the face of loss, helping us see the bigger picture. It’s like looking at a puzzle and realizing that the missing pieces are part of a beautiful design.
How Do We Find Joy in Christ?
So, how do we tap into this joy? It’s simpler than assembling furniture but more meaningful than anything from IKEA (no shade to the Swedes). Here are some steps:
1. Center Your Life on Him
Think of Christ as the Wi-Fi for your soul. If you’re not connected, nothing works right. Build a daily habit of prayer, scripture study, and worship to strengthen your connection.
2. Embrace the Sacrament
Sacrament meeting isn’t just another Sunday ritual; it’s like a weekly recharge for your spirit. Take time to reflect on His Atonement, renew your covenants, and feel His grace.
3. Trust in His Promises
Jesus said, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). That’s a promise you can count on—no expiration date, no strings attached.
4. Share His Joy
Joy multiplies when it’s shared. Help others feel the light of Christ, whether through service, testimony, or simply being a friend. (Bonus: it feels really good to brighten someone else’s day.)
Conclusion
Joy in Jesus Christ is the antidote to life’s chaos. It’s the deep, abiding peace that comes from knowing we’re loved, forgiven, and never alone. Elder Kearon’s message reminds us that we are part of “the church of joy.” As we center our lives on Christ, we can experience a joy that isn’t fleeting or conditional but eternal and transformative.
So the next time life feels like a juggling act or a round of flaming dodgeballs, remember that Jesus Christ is the ultimate game-changer. Through Him, we can find joy, no matter what. And unlike that extra fry in the bag, this joy lasts forever.
The Joy of Christ
When skies are dark and storms arise,
And hope seems hidden from your eyes,
The Savior whispers, soft and clear,
“My child, take heart, for I am near.”
When burdens grow too much to bear,
And sorrow lingers in the air,
He lifts the weight, He calms the seas,
And fills our hearts with lasting peace.
When guilt becomes a heavy chain,
And shame’s a scar that leaves its stain,
He takes it all and makes us whole,
Restoring light within the soul.
Through trials deep and days unknown,
We never walk this path alone.
His love sustains, His grace provides,
A steady strength that ever guides.
And when the grave seems cold and near,
He conquers death, dissolves the fear.
The empty tomb declares His might,
The risen Lord, the source of light.
So let us live with joy complete,
For Christ makes all our lives sweet.
Through Him, we find eternal peace,
A love that never fades or cease.
Resources for Further Study
To deepen your understanding of the joy found in Jesus Christ and the teachings referenced in this article, consider exploring the following resources:
Scriptures
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The Holy Bible
- John 15:11: "These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full."
- Romans 3:23: "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God."
- Isaiah 1:18: "Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow."
- Matthew 11:28: "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
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The Book of Mormon
- 2 Nephi 2:25: "Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy."
- Mosiah 2:41: A reminder of the "blessed and happy state" of those who follow God’s commandments.
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Doctrine and Covenants
- D&C 101:36: "Wherefore, fear not even unto death; for in this world your joy is not full, but in me your joy is full."
General Conference Talks
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Elder Patrick Kearon, "Welcome to the Church of Joy"
- A powerful message about how joy is central to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
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President Russell M. Nelson, "Joy and Spiritual Survival" (October 2016)
- Insights into how centering our lives on Christ enables us to find joy even in adversity.
Gospel Topics and Essays
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“Plan of Salvation” – Guide to the joy and purpose of life through God’s eternal plan.
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“Happiness” – Understanding the relationship between joy and living gospel principles.
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“Jesus Christ” – Explore the role of Christ in bringing eternal joy and peace.
Hymns and Inspirational Music
Additional Reading
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The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ
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“Becoming Like God” (Gospel Topics Essay)
- Explores the divine nature of humanity and the joy of eternal progression.
- Becoming Like God
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“Are Mormons Christian?” (Gospel Topics Essay)
- Examines the centrality of Jesus Christ in Latter-day Saint faith.
- Are Mormons Christian?
Media
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“Finding Joy in Jesus Christ” (Video)
- A short video that highlights how turning to Christ brings lasting happiness.
- Watch Here
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"Come Unto Christ" (Music Video)
- A powerful reminder of the joy found in Christ’s invitation to follow Him.
- Watch Here
