In my reading this morning, I came across an interesting statement. A man by the name of Evagrius of Pontus, a 4th century monk who coined the phrase "The 7 Deadly Sins" originally had 8 on the list, but hacked it to seven because, as we all know, 7 is the most holy of numbers! The eighth deadly sin? Gloom. That's right, along with Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Sloth, Wrath, Envy, and Pride, we have Gloom.
After some interesting investigation, I am convinced that 8 deadly sins are more complete, and here's why. In the early church, the spirit of joy was abundant. Joy is the opposite of gloom, and joy was seen throughout early Christianity. They were accused of possessing overflowing joy, beautiful, and most dangerous of all, contagious joy.
Contrast these early believers with some of the other 1st century pagan religions - these pagans were in a settled position of despair, sadness, and pessimism as they worshiped with unsettled doubts in their hearts. These early Christians were filled with joy and hope that radiated outward!
The gospel begins and ends with joy. Have you ever considered that? It's true! Gabriel's words to Mary when she found out that she was carrying the Son of God were, I bring you good tidings of great joy (Luke 2). How does it conclude? Luke 24, following the resurrection and ascension of Christ, we read that the disciples headed out to Jerusalem with great joy. In John 15, Jesus promises His joy to be with them, and that joy would be made full.
Joy is an attribute of God - God has joy when a sinner comes to saving faith, and the sign of God in someone's life is joy!
Joy should be one of your obvious characteristics that people know about you. Don't be "the guy with the beard," or "that lady who always cracks her knuckles". Work today on showing joy to others - have a settled peace that comes across loud and clear.
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