Empty Gift Boxes and Lasting Spiritual Joy

During the Christmas season, many are captivated by beautifully wrapped presents adorned with shiny paper and elegant bows. These external decorations symbolize the outward appearances that often draw our attention in life. However, beneath this attractive packaging, the true gift of joy may be absent. The image of an empty gift box vividly illustrates how people frequently prioritize superficial appearances—material possessions, outward success, and temporary pleasures—while neglecting the deeper, more meaningful joy that only God provides ([53:04]).

Placing hope in external appearances is like valuing the wrapping paper over the gift inside. Efforts to decorate life with signs of happiness can mask an internal emptiness. When the external "wrapping" fades or life’s circumstances change, the hollow reality beneath is revealed. Many lives may appear perfect and joyful on the surface but feel empty and unfulfilled within. True joy, however, is a gift from God that cannot be purchased or superficially displayed ([53:51]).

Happiness and joy are distinct concepts. Happiness is often dependent on external circumstances and is therefore fragile and fleeting. A pleasant morning can be quickly spoiled by a traffic jam or a harsh word, causing happiness to vanish suddenly ([55:21]). Joy, in contrast, is a deeper, more resilient state rooted in a relationship with God. It is an inner condition that endures despite difficult or changing circumstances ([56:43]).

The pursuit of happiness through material things and outward appearances is like chasing the wrapping paper without ever receiving the true gift inside. When these superficial pursuits are unwrapped, they often reveal emptiness. True joy is a spiritual gift—unshakable and enduring—offered by God alone, unlike happiness which can be lost or stolen at any moment ([56:43]).

Focusing on external appearances can divert attention from the true source of joy: Jesus Christ. Looking beyond the wrapping encourages seeking the genuine gift within, which is the joy that comes from trusting in God’s promises and presence. The example of Mary and Joseph demonstrates this truth. Despite facing fear, uncertainty, and external hardships, their trust in God’s plan brought them profound joy rooted in faith ([01:07:32]). Mary’s response to the angel—marked by trust and surrender—shows that true joy is found in embracing God’s gift rather than relying on favorable circumstances.

The analogy of beautifully wrapped but empty gift boxes teaches that many focus on external decorations and material possessions while missing the lasting joy that resides within. Happiness is fleeting and dependent on external factors, but joy is a deep, spiritual gift from God that remains constant even when life changes. The reality that many experience unhappiness despite outward success highlights the necessity of seeking this true joy, which is found only through a relationship with Jesus Christ.

This article was written by an AI tool for churches, based on a sermon from The Source Church, one of 60 churches in Boulder, CO