Joy is more than yelling woo

I once heard the leader of a worship service lecture about Joy. He said that Christians should be overcome with excitement. They should be happy. They should cheer. They should, if they are so inclined, express their Christian Joy by yelling "woo" at the designated point in the song (no, the song wasn't "A Mighty Fortress is our God").

I assume his goal was to encourage more tangible participation in the service. As the worship leader, he doubtless felt that enthusiastic response was a gauge of his effectiveness. Presumably, enticing worshipers into active exuberance has a greater chance of resulting in heartfelt identification with God and his message. People who do or feel something tend to learn better. And genuine ecstasy during worship is a proper reaction. I also don't dispute that fun is a marvelous way to reach people and that it has its place in worship. I believe in the sincerity of the worship leader's efforts to connect with his worshipers and connect them to God.

But my concept of Joy is more than yelling "woo". Joy isn't just feeling perky and grinning. At many times, joy doesn't imply happiness in the shallow sense. Joy is the emotive outpouring of the assurance of Faith. Joy is trust. Joy is the freedom of not worrying whether or not the "universe is on your side". Joy is not dependent on circumstances. Joy is keeping one's perspective tilted toward eternity. Joy is delight in divine perfection, something solid that's worthy of sacrifice. Joy is humble because Joy is full appreciation of grace. Joy isn't a cynical analysis of the evil all around. Joy is searching for good and then embracing it. Joy is recognizing daily blessings. Joy is the prerogative to retaliate against past mistakes and present difficulties by refusing to be a slave to either (consequences can't be ignored but also aren't the "last word"). Joy therefore enables holiness and growth. Joy is the expectation that one can and will attempt to please the God who pursued us first. Joy is the attitude that attracts the undevoted.