Like a child holding onto a bundle of cherry-red helium balloons, I celebrated whenever joy was in my grasp, but also recognized the speed with which it could slip away, deflate, or disappear altogether.
I knew better than to outright refuse joy, yet all too often I was making choices that tugged joy away, settling into a life where joy only made an occasional cameo.
That’s when it occurred to me that how we go about laying hold of joy matters.
Our pursuit of joy doesn’t just affect us, but those closest to us, those we love most.
Such were the beginnings of studying, pursuing, and learning to fight back with joy over the last three years.
In Day 37 reading of the #LentChallenge, anchors us in the holy calling to be joy warriors. (Download your free Gospel reading guide, here).
In John 15-16, we eavesdrop on a most mysterious conversation, Jesus’ choice, final syllables before his arrest. This is where he blows on the embers of their faith. Moments later the lights go out for all the disciples. The world becomes as dark as night. But Jesus’ words on this fateful eve aren’t just for them, they’re for us.
Today. Here. Now.
To continue reading, pick up a copy of Flourish: Live Loved, Live Fearless, Live Free, a 52-week devotional with coloring pages sprinkled throughout.
What would a flourishing life look like for you? Take a moment and imagine…
Instead of surviving your days, you savor each moment. You pour into the lives of others, and it’s a joy, not a chore. And every hour, you are deeply, dazzling aware of God’s love and presence.
God intends this flourishing life for you. And it can start today.
Love this! Thank you!
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Beautiful Margaret!
Thanks so much, Karlee!
needed to hear this today…
Praying for you, Kellie!
What you wrote today took me back to this. The branches of my heart & Jesus is in the center. My closest friend my hiding place. “Without a shadow of a doubt I will always run to Jesus.” I have to admit this had me in tears, but they were Joyful tears. Thank you!!!
I needed this today! It set my spark back in me the fire I need! Thanks so much!
What you heard made me cry. I need to go put my head on His chest for awhile. All of these Lent posts have been powerful.
Thank you!
Hugs, sweet friend.
Beautiful reminders to draw near always–where joy abounds!
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This spoke so deeply to my heart. Thank you for this!
Huge hug, Julie.