A lot of people are waiting to be happy these days. Some are waiting for the right person or the right job to come along. Some are waiting for a difficult season to come to an end. As we read through the Bible stories of Mary and Elizabeth and Zechariah, the people who were waiting for the birth of Jesus, we learn three things about waiting to be happy.
The first thing we learn is that happiness comes to those who believe God’s promises. Elizabeth said of Mary, “Blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by God’s word.” If you want to be happy, trust God’s promises. You might argue that an angel appeared to Mary with promises from God, and no such angel has appeared to you. True. However, God has made promises to all of us. God has made promises to all his people through the Bible. God has promised us provision and protection and purpose and eternal life. Happiness comes to those who believe God’s promises.
Next, happiness comes to those who trust God to take away their shame. Elizabeth had the shame of being old and childless. Mary had the shame of being an unwed mother. Our situations are different, but we all try to justify ourselves and demonstrate that we are good enough. Sometimes we try shallow self-promotion. That doesn’t work. People see through it. Sometimes we try quiet competence. That works for a while, but eventually our strength fades and we cannot contribute the way we once did. What does work? The simple faith that we are accepted and judged good enough because we are loved by God. Happiness comes to those who trust God to take away their shame.
Finally, happiness comes to those who serve God. Once we achieve a little stability in this life and have moved beyond survival issues, we have a choice to make regarding our disposable money and energy and time. We can devote ourselves to keeping amused and entertained, or we can pour ourselves out serving God and his people. The happiness that comes from a life of service is way better, and lasts way longer, than keeping yourself entertained. Happiness comes to those who serve God.
In our sermon this Sunday we will talk about waiting to be happy.