On the Shoulders of my Priest I found true meaning
Of joy: that blessed assurance, flowing expressly from
His heart to mine, that stirring of quiet excitement,
Starting off as bubbles, building until it erupts within
A fountain of soothing elation. Joy is when at last
The lost is found though all he lost may not be found.
Joy is when contentment simmers, rises, until it can
No longer be contained or restrained, and finding escape
Through ringing laugher, silent tears, or fledging faith
It flows unceasing, scouring filth, purging shame
Because at last the blind can see, the lost is found.
Food For Thought: We often mix up joy and happiness. Joy is a gift and like rejoicing, happiness is a choice. We can choose to be happy because we have acquired a desire or attained a dream. We do not choose joy: joy chooses us. When we choose the Prince of peace, He comes with joy. In the absence of peace, joy is at large. Joy and peace go hand in hand. And when you are full of joy, happiness makes its home in you. Like steam, joy is the byproduct of the presence of God simmering within. Settled in God’s peace, we are better guided to choose well and live right, to be happy no matter what. Possessions and positions can kick off our happiness but it will only last a while. However, when joy is sitting inside, anyone and anything can come and go and we will be in a position to choose to continue to rejoice and be glad. Jesus is our peace and our joy comes from Him. When we have the Source of joy, our hearts gain access to unrestrainable and unspeakable joy. Without Him, happiness is all we can find and it will keep coming and going depending on who and what is coming and going in our lives. In the care of God, our cares cease to worry and our hearts know joy that cannot be stolen.
Scripture: It was right that we should make merry and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found. Luke 15: 32.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I am amazed that You find joy in me: may I always delight in You and in Your ways, amen.