Joy is essential to the Christian life. But how can we be joyful in a world full of violence and injustice? Christian joy is not a superficial and transitory feeling. "Being joyful in all circumstances" does not mean that we should force ourselves to laugh. Our joy is made of trust in God and His will: “For this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) It is in Christ Jesus, who has gone through suffering and death and has resurrected victorious, that we find the source, the reason for our joy of being and living. Be joyful in all circumstances, ask for it unceasingly and give thanks on every occasion. Joy and gratitude keep us on the right path, indeed!