Yesterday, Ndejje University Main Campus was filled with a spirit of celebration during the weekly Community Hour, a time dedicated to spiritual enrichment and fellowship. The event was led by Ord. Alfred, who shared an inspiring message on the theme: “Be Joyful in the Lord,” based on Zephaniah 3:14-16. The focus of the message was on the “Fruit of Joy,” reminding all in attendance that joy is a precious treasure that comes from a deep relationship with God.
Chosen to Bear Fruit: The Fruit of Joy
Ord. Alfred began his sermon by emphasizing that joy is a gift from God, a treasure that we are called to cultivate in our lives. Drawing from Zephaniah 3:14-16, he spoke about God’s command for His people to rejoice, to “sing, Daughter Zion; shout aloud, Israel!” He reminded the congregation that God had taken away their punishment, turned back their enemies, and promised that they would never fear harm again. This, he explained, is the joy that comes from knowing that God is always in our midst.
A Joy Restored
In his sermon, Ord. Alfred recounted the story of creation from Genesis, where God placed man in a beautiful garden, a place of joy and perfection. However, when sin entered the world, joy was lost. The preacher then moved to the story of Exodus, where God made a covenant with Abraham to restore joy to humanity. Despite this covenant, people continued to disobey, leading them into periods of suffering and slavery. Yet, through the prophets like Zephaniah, God continued to deliver His message of hope and joy, calling His people to return to Him.
Joy in All Circumstances
Referencing John 16:22, Ord. Alfred encouraged the congregation to remain joyful even in times of grief, as Jesus promised that “you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.” He further elaborated that joy is not just an emotion but a state of being that comes from knowing that Jesus is our provider and healer, as affirmed in Jeremiah 1:5, where God speaks of knowing and setting apart His people even before they were formed in the womb.
The preacher also shared insights from John 15:16 and Galatians 5:22, highlighting that we are chosen by God to bear fruit — including the fruit of joy, which is a manifestation of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
A Joyful Celebration of New Leadership
The Community Hour service was also marked by the swearing-in of the new ministers, a symbolic moment filled with hope and anticipation for the future. As the new leaders took their oaths, the atmosphere was charged with a sense of renewal and commitment to serve the Lord and the Ndejje University community with joy and dedication.
Final Reflection
The message of the day was clear: Joy is a divine gift that no one can take away. It is rooted in the knowledge that the Lord is always with us, and He has chosen us to bear fruit. The Community Hour ended with a profound sense of joy and unity, as everyone left feeling uplifted and inspired to live with joy in their hearts, knowing they are always in the presence of the Lord.
The next Community Hour promises to continue this spirit of fellowship and spiritual growth, as Ndejje University remains committed to nurturing not only the minds but also the hearts of its community members.
