Sometimes, we need to be reminded that a fundamentally Christian outlook on life – right now – is one of joy, not lament. Yes, it is appropriate to lament some of the things that are happening in our world, in our church, and in our lives. Though Christian joy is not an escape from sorrow, it does give shape to our sorrow. In Christ, we are reminded that God has decisively acted to set things right and the Spirit assures us that this victory will be fulfilled in the future. This is why we can “rejoice continuously.”