Got Joy? How many of you “got it”? Years ago when I took a class at Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary, the professor broke JOY down into three parts; Jesus, others and yourself.
In my 55 years of life, I’ve discovered those three parts of JOY are essential but in that order; Jesus first, others second and myself last. I have truly found the times I am happiest are when I am serving others and give of myself to Jesus, in whatever capacity.
This morning when I woke up I spent time in prayer and God’s Word like I always do. My husband Ron asked me why I was dancing around in the kitchen, all happy. I said, “ It’s a good day, the sun in shining and I’m happy.” Besides the fact that I don’t have to wear the back brace anymore. The compression fracture to my L3 is healing nicely. I’m happy to be alive and able to give thanks to God. It’s the little things in life that make me smile.
As Ron and I were talking over our breakfast of eggs, we began talking about people who tend to complain. It made me take a “deep dive” into why people complain. Let’s see: things aren’t going their way, or possibly they lack control over a situation. Perhaps, friends are in a new season and something has shifted. The root of complaining can be many things. However I’m thinking it boils down to yourself. Something isn’t meeting your expectations. Just a thought.
What would happen if we put ourself last and put Jesus first? What would happen if we put others before ourself? Experience tells me that it brings JOY! It’s not about me or you. It’s about Jesus and serving Him. The times I am happiest, I’m doing something for others. Last week is an example and I do not share this to “toot my horn”, rather I say this in humility. Last week Ron and I made pound cakes for our homeless friends that we help serve with the awesome RiceNBeans team. I told Ron I thought the people would enjoy something homemade. I was in the back brace but I didn’t care. Ron sliced the cakes as I baked them. It was no big deal really. He got 100 pieces of cake from those four pound cakes. My heart felt so much joy that night as we were serving the rice, beans, hotdogs and cake. I was tired when we got home but I was so happy. I saw my friends bringing warm clothes for a lady who was cold. Not everyone makes it into the shelters. It warmed my heart to see the team loving on these people who have no where to go.
If you lack true JOY in your life. Try this, put Jesus first in your life. Ask Jesus to open your eyes to the needs of people around you and get involved. The “y” in joy is last. Consider yourself last. Try not to be easily offended. If you haven’t heard from someone in a while, don’t take it personally. Perhaps that person is going through a tough time. Reach out and let them know you are thinking about them. Life is too short to hold grudges. Let’s spread the joy and peace of the Lord. Have an awesome week. If you’d like to help with RicenBeans go to the website and sign up to help. Volunteers can drop when the weather gets back but we are out there anyway. Check out http://www.ricenbeans.org Together let’s spread Joy
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