You will show me the path of life, in your presence there is fullness of joy; and in your right hand are pleasures for evermore. Psalm 16:11
Four summers ago, I took a sabbatical. While pondering what would help renew my spirit, give me rest, and prepare me for the years of ministry to come, I started with prayer. After months of wrestling with “this” and “that” or “maybe” or “could I” I decided to start with joy. What would bring me the most joy? Where do I find joy? And how does God communicate through joy in my life. As many of you know I decided to camp and hike around the US and hike in parts of Europe.
What brings you joy? Where do you find strength? How do you sustain hope?. . . is what I ask myself and others when the questions of life arise. They are also the questions I ask when people are trying to discern their future, or to determine if they are on the path that God has put within them. You see, I believe that God promises us joy in this life. Not necessarily a 24-7 happy-clappy life. Nor a life free of pain and sorrow. Rather the deep joy and gratitude that is found within us when we give thanks for the blessings of this life and know in our hearts that God is always with us. This is the joy that directs and sustains us.
I believe that we find that joy when we live our lives closer to God. During Lent I invited you to learn more about prayer, and to find that place of silence within and around you. Now, during this Easter season, I invite you to take the time, slow the pace, and open your ears so that God may once again reveal your heart’s desire. And when you find that place of joy, hope, strength, and peace, explore ways to manifest that joy in your life.
