Second Saturday of Advent
Scripture Reading for Today:
Joy is Resistance
by Pablo Kim Sun
"Joy" is a word that saturates the Christmas season. It echoes through carols, decorates cards and T-shirts, yet at times, amid the tumultuous backdrop of climate crises, global conflicts, and pervasive injustice, it can seem superficial. How can we find joy when the world around us seems devoid of it? It's reminiscent of a lavish party aboard the Titanic, ignorant of the impending disaster.
Finding joy detached from reality might seem like escapism, a means of turning away from the heartbreaking truths in front of us. However, when joy is deeply rooted in our current reality, woven into our communities and lived experiences, it becomes a powerful force fueling our journey of faith.
In my study and advocacy for social justice, I encounter stories of profound injustice, oppression, and systemic evils. I listen to stories of individuals facing racism, sexism, ableism, and various other forms of oppression. Yet, remarkably, these same marginalized voices also speak of joy. Some Black theologians discuss "Black joy," while some feminist theologians emphasize the significance of joy and pleasure. These scholars shed light on systemic evils while also sharing stories of joy and pleasure, illustrating the interconnectedness between suffering and joy—a wisdom reminiscent of my Korean ancestors.
For those familiar with the writings of Korean theologians, "han” (한 - Korean; 恨 - Chinese) is a recurring theme. It embodies a sense of unresolved resentment towards injustice, a feeling of helplessness in the face of overwhelming odds, and acute pain and sorrow from various forms of oppression. It's a visceral experience tied to political oppression, economic exploitation, social exclusion, and poverty.
However, alongside han exists "heung” (흥 - Korean; 興 - Chinese), translated as joy, pleasure, and merriment. In the midst of han-filled circumstances, our ancestors deliberately chose heung, seeing it as a resistance—an embodiment of hope in challenging times. In the face of adversity, they collectively chose celebration as a means to defy hopelessness. Actively seeking reasons to rejoice, they recognized that even within the bleakest situations, beauty and moments of wonder persist, promoting them to intentionally celebrate and find joy.
Reflecting on Romans 5:3, where Apostle Paul urges rejoicing in suffering, I initially struggled to grasp its meaning. It seemed almost masochistic, an encouragement to blindly rejoice in harsh conditions. But viewed through the cultural lens of my Korean heritage and the perspectives of some feminist and Black theologians, Paul's message now resonates. Joy, I realize, is an act of resistance—a way of embodying hope in the present.
I am acutely aware of the widespread suffering in the world. Some, privileged, can choose to ignore it. However, I lack that privilege. Still, I choose joy because I genuinely believe in the resilience of humanity and the divine amidst the struggle. While my individual efforts may seem insignificant, I trust in the collective power of small actions rippling into meaningful change. Rather than succumbing to the enormity of evil, I dedicate myself to contributing my utmost to the collective endeavour of forging a better world. Simultaneously, I revel in the beauty and wonder that surrounds us daily, finding solace in the belief that, mysteriously, there will be a full restoration - relying on the humble beginnings of the story of redemption with the arrival of baby Jesus.
And if you happen to see me listening and dancing to “Gangnam Style,” consider it a moment of pure heung.
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