Joy in Community
Week 2: Joy in Community
Last week, we got to the root of where true joy lies—in God’s presence (Psalm 16:11). This week, we’re building on that foundation and looking at how joy isn’t just a “me” thing. It’s something that grows deeper in relationships—with God and with each other. Because joy is even sweeter when shared, let’s kick things off with a story that might make you feel... cranky….
The Chili Cook-Off Incident
A few years back, I found myself (unofficially) “judging” a church chili cook-off—something I’m extraordinarily unqualified for. At this potluck, I’d ask each person, “Is there anything special you’d like to share about what you brought?” Watching people’s faces light up as they talked about their chili was the best.
Then, in came this older woman with her grandson, toting a huge pot of chili. She lit up like the Fourth of July when I asked about her chili, proudly telling me it was her grandmother’s recipe, one she’d tweaked over the years to perfection.
Right in the middle of her animated and joy-filled explanation, a guy came up, leaned over my shoulder, and without any invitation gruffly asked, “Does it have beans in it?”
She beamed and said, “Yes! I soak them for three days and—”
He cut her off, rolling his eyes: “Well, if it has beans, it’s not chili.”
Her smile faded, and her shoulder slumped- she looked confused and very defeated. I’m going to be really really with you… in that moment, I wanted to throw hands. Talk about stealing someone’s joy! This lady’s pride in her family’s recipe was contagious, but it only took one rude comment to snatch that joy away.
Moral of the story? Don’t be that guy. And for the record—I definitely did not vote for his chili.
Invalid Joy
We do this to each other sometimes, don’t we? We knock down someone’s joy because it doesn’t line up with our opinions or preferences. It’s bologna.
Now, let’s apply this to our faith. We’re called to a different kind of joy—one the world won’t understand or even dismiss as invalid.
The question we have to ask is this: do we understand what true joy is and where to find it?
Let’s get into it.
The Fullness of Joy
John was an eyewitness to the life and ministry of Jesus, and he writes several of the books in the Christian scriptures. Often when we read scripture we have to ask alot of questions about the context and intent of the authors- but what cool about John is we don’t have to guess. In each of his writings he spells out exactly why he’s writing. John begins one of his letters like this:
1 John 1:3-4
We proclaim to you what we ourselves have actually seen and heard so that you may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. We are writing these things so that you may fully share our joy.
A theologian I admire, Dave Anderson, uses the language “fullness of joy” in this verse.
A glass of water filled to the very brim, just about to spill.
That overstuffed, Thanksgiving-feast kind of fullness.
A sold-out stadium where there’s no room to move.
That’s full joy—when there’s no space left for anything else. John says this joy comes not only from our relationship with God but also through fellowship with each other.
It’s pretty simple:
Fellowship with each other + Fellowship with God = Complete Joy
Joy grows in community. When we share meals, support each other in tough seasons, worship together, or simply enjoy time with friends, we’re experiencing the kind of joy God intended for us.
John reminds us that we can’t separate love for God from love for others. When we love well, we get to experience the joy God designed for us.
Barriers to Joy in Community
Now let’s not get too far ahead of ourselves. I don’t know if you’ve noticed this before- but sometimes community can be…. difficult. Relationships are hard, complicated and can sometimes feel like it’s not even worth the effort.
In his letter, John states that fullness of Joy comes in community- but he doesn’t pretend like all community is sunshine and rainbows- let’s get into what John has to say about the barriers we can experience in community.
Sin and Living in Darkness
1 John 1:6-7 tells us that sin damages relationships with both God and others. But when we “walk in the light”—being honest and transparent—it makes room for joy.Hate vs. Love
John writes, “Anyone who hates a brother or sister is still in darkness” (1 John 2:9-11). Bitterness or unresolved conflict? They rob us of joy. Forgiveness and love restore fellowship—and joy.Worldly Values
1 John 2:15-17 warns us against prioritizing possessions, status, or achievements over people. When we chase worldly success over relationships, we miss out on the joy that comes from true community.
Are these barriers present in any of your relationships?
As I’m looking over these examples I can say that I need to work on each of these in different relationships in my life.
It’s not always fun to look inward and acknowledge where we fall short, but I believe that experiencing a fullness of Joy is worth the work.
Finding Joy in Community Today
Quick gut check as we wrap up:
Where do you feel the most joy in community?
What relationships are filling you with joy?
Are there relationships where conflict is stealing that joy?
Joy in community doesn’t happen by accident. It requires us to show up, be present and get real.
Challenge
This week I want you to try to take on at least two of these challenges:
Identify one relationship to invest in more intentionally.
Send a text of encouragement to someone.
Invite someone for coffee.
Reconnect with an old friend.
Resolve conflict where needed. Ask God to help you forgive and pursue reconciliation.
Or you know what? be an overachiever! Do all of them!
You got this.
Closing Thought
The joy God gives us is too big to keep to ourselves. John teaches that joy becomes complete when we share it—in fellowship with God and with others.
If joy feels distant, maybe it’s time to lean into community.
