December 22 • Arriving at Joy

Happiness is elusive. We try to lay hold of the feeling of pleasure and satisfaction, but it comes and goes. God designed it to be like this. Happiness doesn’t last long, but joy does. Joy is seeing the enduring value of the present moment. Joy is finding the beauty in every situation, the purpose in every interaction, the blessing in every person.

There is a reason to rejoice always [1 Thessalonians 5]. Our lives are filled with good things, and it is not consuming them that leaves us with joy. It is something much deeper and richer. It is communion- united together, held together, experienced together.

Even waiting is meant to be joyful.  A time of relationship and deepening of trust. Don’t waste it by wondering how long you’ll be here. You are here right now, so seek God here. Stay with us, for it is evening, and the day is almost over. [Luke 24:29] Enjoy this moment you have with your God, because you can be certain that God does.

The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, who hope in his steadfast love. [Psalm 147:11]