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| Christmas Tree* |
We heard a sermon today on the spiritual fruit of joy,
linked to the Christmas story and season. Pastor Tom walked us through Mary’s
experience as the chosen vessel of God to be Jesus’s mother.
I too was reading Mary’s story lately, in the beginning chapters
of Luke. Zacharias’ heart was hardened from years of unanswered prayers. His
wife was barren, and both of them were getting on in age. His response to Gabriel
as the angel brought glad tidings was one of bitterness, like “do you expect me
to believe this?”
Let’s talk about the pathways to joy.
TRUST
But Mary’s was “How can this be?” She didn’t understand but
she didn’t reject the good news either. And because she trusted God, she would
see her needs met, her promises from God fulfilled, her joy complete.
An unhardened heart can receive the good news so much more
easily than a bitter one. There’s no room for joy in a cold heart.
THANKFULNESS
The other “pathway” to joy, besides trusting God is that of
thankfulness.
Next time your joy meter is low, try this: make a mental
list of seven things you’re thankful for, and dig deep. Don’t just settle on
the obvious ones. If you say “family,” let a picture of your family’s love come
to mind. Go beyond the obvious. By the time you’ve finished, you’ll not only
see how God has been faithful to you and your family, but joy will sneak up on
you.
Deep and sincere gratitude leads to joy.
COMMUNION WITH GOD
One more “pathway” is that of communion with God. Nothing
lifts burdens (that crowd out joy) like chatting with God, giving Him our
burdens, getting His perspective, hearing from Him, recalling His promises.
So, this season, make room for joy. Let God fill you up.
~~~
Photo credit: freedigitalphotos.net Christmas Tree by Keattikorn
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