As we approach the third Sunday of Advent, the pink- or rose-colored candle is lit, symbolizing joy. This joy — like peace from last week — is one of the elements of the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). The joy brought through the Spirit goes beyond the ephemeral happiness brought by the world. The joy of Christmas exceeds the happiness that comes with opening presents or even being a gift-giver and reminds us of the eternal hope found in Christ. This week’s focus on joy leads us to “Joy to the World,” a hymn that has become a cornerstone of Christmas celebrations and a profound declaration of the good news of Christ’s arrival.
“Joy to the World” was written by English hymn-writer Isaac Watts in 1719 and is among the most-published hymns in North America. The hymn arrived in America in 1729 when Benjamin Franklin republished Watts’s anthology, “The Psalms of David,” in 1729. It is often considered a Christmas carol, though it was originally composed as a paraphrase of Psalm 98, celebrating the reign of Christ rather than specifically commemorating His birth. The hymn exudes jubilance, calling all creation to join in praising the Lord.
The opening lines, “Joy to the world, the Lord is come! Let earth receive her King,” set the tone for the hymn, emphasizing the universal scope of Christ’s reign. The familiar “and heaven and nature sing” recall Psalm 96:11-12: “Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof. Let the field be joyful, and all that is therein: then shall all the trees of the wood rejoice.”
The hymn’s imagery of Heaven and nature singing is a poetic expression of this biblical truth, portraying a world transformed by the presence of the Lord.
The hymn begins as a celebratory response to Christ’s coming and invitation for each person to prepare room in their hearts for Christ, while the latter stanzas reveal its theological depth. The line “He comes to make His blessings flow far as the curse is found” directly addresses the redemptive work of Jesus. This reference to Genesis 3:17-19, where the curse of sin enters the world, reminds us Christ’s mission was to be our savior. His blessings extend to every corner of creation, breaking the power of sin and death, and restoring humanity’s relationship with God.
The final stanza declares the glories of Christ’s righteousness and the wonders of His love. This love is the ultimate source of joy, giving believers hope and assurance in the promise of eternal life.
Musically, the melody most associated with “Joy to the World” was adapted by American hymn-writer Lowell Mason in 1836 from imitations of the great Baroque composer George Frideric Handel. Mason’s arrangement helped solidify the hymn’s popularity and its association with the Christmas season. The triumphant and uplifting nature of the melody perfectly complements Watts’s text.
Though originally intended as a hymn celebrating Christ’s second coming, “Joy to the World” has become a beloved anthem for His first coming as well. Its message of hope, redemption and universal joy encapsulates the essence of Advent and Christmas, reminding us of the profound reasons we celebrate.
“Joy to the World” invites us to embrace the true and lasting joy found in Christ. This joy surpasses the temporary happiness of opening presents or participating in holiday festivities. It is a joy rooted in the knowledge of God’s unchanging love and the assurance of His promises.
