You’ve seen the memes. It’s finally the Christmas program and all the students are excited to share what they’ve prepared. But there’s one student that shines brighter than the rest. They are dancing like no one is watching and singing with all their might. Their joy is contagious and even the parents supposed to be taking videos of their own child can’t help but turn their phone and capture that undeniable viral moment of a little one being so happy and free they just might burst.

We are given some commands today in our verses from Zephaniah. Sing. Shout aloud. Be glad. Rejoice. When was the last time you did any of those things? Maybe it was today. Christmas break is right around the corner, and you are excited for a nice break with family and friends celebrating the birth of our Savior. You are singing and rejoicing with gladness! That’s awesome!

Or maybe you can’t remember the last time you felt like singing and shouting for joy? Perhaps your “shouting aloud” has been more like cries of frustration and sadness this Advent season. Maybe this is your first Christmas missing someone you loved that was here last year. Maybe you are celebrating alone this year and are longing for a spouse or kids to celebrate with. Maybe your finances will make this time of year extra difficult.

Can I tell you that whether you fit in the “singing” or “crying” or “somewhere in between” category, you still get to rejoice greatly this December? Zephaniah reminds us exactly why we get to be filled with joy any time of the year. “The Lord has taken away your punishment.” No longer are we dead in our sins headed for an eternity in hell. “He has turned back your enemy.” The devil no longer has a hold on us. “The Lord the king of Israel, is with you.” No matter how lonely we feel, the King of the universe sits by our side and calls us his own. “Never again will you fear any harm.” Our future is secure. We never need to fear anything taking eternal life with Jesus away from us.

Your joy isn’t based on your present circumstances this Christmas. It is based on the firm foundation that Jesus Christ came down from heaven to rescue you from sin and promises a perfect eternity with him one day. Don’t let any trial or tribulation dim your light as you seek to sing, be glad, and rejoice! Shout it from the rooftops as you find peace, love, and joy today in your Savior!