Connected to Joy

Monday evening, my wife and I received some wonderful, long-awaited news. We quickly went and shared the news with our son. He was also elated. I asked him why he was so happy, and he said, “I am happy because you are happy, dada!” We then had a family dance party in his room before bedtime.

Rejoice with those who rejoice…

His joy in my joy made me all the more joyful. My son’s joy wasn’t rooted in the change of our family’s circumstances. His joy was rooted in our relational connection.

Rejoice with those who rejoice…

I invite you to PAUSE. Take a few breaths in and out.

Pray:

Holy Spirit, quiet my body, my mind, and my Spirit.

PAUSE.

Breathe in. Breathe out.

Reflect.

If you are experiencing joy today, thank God for the joy you are experiencing.

If joy seems far off, is there someone else in your life that you are connected to that you can rejoice with today?

PAUSE.

Breathe in. Breathe out.

My son’s joy was rooted in our relational connection. God desires our joy to be rooted in our relationship with him.  

Pray:

God, help me to root my joy in your love for me.  Even if I don’t fully understand what that means, help me to receive your joy today.

PAUSE.

Breathe in. Breathe out.

May you rest in the presence and joy of God today (Ps. 16:11).