The Desire for Joy

The desire for joy is inherently stronger than the fear of sadness, though under certain circumstances our preoccupation may be with avoiding the latter rather than seeking the former.
Saint Thomas Aquinas, 13th Century Theologian

The picture to the right was taken this past summer in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.

It was captured by my daughter, Hannah, while I was beginning the day with the rising sun. Each morn-ing I greeted the sun with stretching joy, reaching upward in my small attempt to meet the Creator. Our campsite was the perfect location for the meeting.

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises…Let the rivers clap their hands; let the hills sing together for joy at the presence of the Lord.
Psalm 98:4, 7-8

As midwinter comes, there is the temptation to become preoccupied with avoiding the fear of sadness, as Aquinas describes, but my desire for joy is inherently stronger. Joy is more than happiness, for it remains in spite of circumstances. Joy is found in deep spiritual connection, the unbending confidence in God’s presence, regardless of surrounding condi-tions and events.

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.
St. Paul, from prison, to the Philippians 4:4-5.

In all times and places, through every circumstance…seek joy, for God is with you. Jesus Christ comes to you. The Holy Spirit blows through you. Seek joy. Stretch in the morning to meet your God. Lean your life toward the light of Jesus Christ. Live your days in love for all creatures and creation. Rest your nights in the confidence that God watches over you.

And when your final day on earth arrives, be ready to awaken to the greatest joy of all. I will be the one you see stretching to meet it.

Peace and joy,

Pastor Paul