GET THEE BEHIND
NOT TODAY! “Back to the hospital with dad! Keep getting punched in the gut. Attempted distractions and joy killers! Not today!” This is the text I sent this morning after I realized what was happening. The past several months have been a test of my joy for sure. Between numerous hospital visits with both parents, caregiving and loss, I had an epiphany this morning – they’re all distractions to keep me from the projects I’m currently working on. They’re all attempts to steal my joy and make me think I don’t have the time or the chops to actually move forward with my projects. All attempts to stop me in my tracks.
STAY HOPEFUL
Today’s verse in the Jesse tree tradition is Genesis 6:5-8 and the story of Noah. When I read the verse my first thought was hope. First, because it reminded me that I can make a difference no matter how small I feel in a world which seems out of control. Second, because it made me realize that there’s always something positive to glean from even the most challenging, difficult or depressing situation we find ourselves in. The only difference between a joyful, happy moment and a sad, challenging one is the amount of time and energy we put into seeing the positive. The question for us then becomes how much work are we willing to put in to maintaining our joy?
FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
As I drove back from the hospital today, I contemplated what I would write about when I got home. The Holy Spirit really spoke to my heart about finding joy in everything, NO MATTER WHAT! So I started thinking about the past few months and where the joy was in taking unpaid leave from a lucrative job, visiting my sick dad at the hospital, rushing mom to the emergency room or euthanizing my pet. What I came up with was: I get to spend quality time with my parents, I have the privilege of helping them get their affairs in order and getting them the services they need as they age. I get to be present for them. I also have the opportunity to practice trust in and surrender to God – to put my money where my mouth is! Am I faithful or do I just believe? In euthanizing my pup, I got to show mercy and true love. I gave him peace. So, despite all the “stuff” I’ve been through and all the tough decisions I’ve had to make, I find and continue to choose JOY!
FOLLOW HIS EXAMPLE
God chose joy too! The story of Noah is definitely about the power of one. It’s also about finding that “diamond in the rough” and not allowing negativity to control your thoughts and actions. In the story of Noah, just like in the creation story, God sets the example. So don’t let anyone or anything steal your joy! There’s always something positive to take away from the darkness and challenges of life! Stay awake and walk with Him! God bless you!
P.S. – check out FOR KING AND COUNTRY’s song JOY here. I know I’ve posted this in the past but thought it was perfect to share with this post.
