Understanding Ordinary Time: The Difference Between Happiness and Joy

Understanding Ordinary Time: The Difference Between Happiness and Joy

The Church now lives in “Ordinary Time”—life outside of Christmas or Easter time. This period is an excellent opportunity to explore the differences between happiness and joy. Though they often overlap and feel similar, one can end while the other endures. Mature disciples need to stay aware of this distinction.

Happiness: The Joy of Earthly Gifts

Happiness is mainly about having what we need and want. It’s the joy of opening birthday presents, enjoying a beer at a football game, or driving a new car. Happiness is about feeling content, comfortable, and secure—appreciating the good things in life, including good health. These blessings are truly good, as God made them. Therefore, happiness is about taking in God’s good earthly gifts with gratitude.

Joy: The Deep Sense of Belonging

Joy, on the other hand, is a matter of belonging. It’s a joy to be part of a loving family, to sing in a choir, to run the Fall marathon, or to be an alumna of a traditional Catholic college. It’s the joy of belonging to the Knights of Columbus.

The roots of belonging shape the person we are. In us, they run deeper than our daily experiences. Deepest of all, we belong to Jesus Christ and His Mystical Body on earth. Our sense of belonging is solid because we did not choose it; God chose it for us. He made us belong to a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people (1 Pet. 2:9).

Happiness can disappear when we face heavy debts or illness. Joy, however, abides because He who gives it to us is faithful and can never fail.

Fr. Joe Tetlow, S.J.