Joy

“Be glad, O people of Zion, rejoice in the Lord Your God, for he has given you the autumn rains in righteousness.  He sends you abundant showers, both autumn and spring rains as before.  The threshing floors will be filled with grain; the vats will overflow with new wine and oil.  I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten—the great locust and the young locust, the other locust and the locust swarm—my great army that I sent among you.  You will have plenty to eat, until you are full, and you will praise the name of the Lord your God, who has worked wonders for you; never again will my people be shamed.  Then you will know that I am in Israel, that I am the Lord your God, and that there is no other; never again will my people be shamed.  An afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people.  Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions.  Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days.” Joel 2:23-29

This passage shares a reminder that sons and daughters, children and grandchildren will see life in a new way. After judgment and repentance, restoration and blessing will follow. When disturbing world events threaten to overwhelm, we take comfort in the promise of deliverance for those who are faithful to God. We find joy in the promise of restoration.

As our grandchildren bubble over with joy and excitement brought by new experiences, their delight makes us aware of the many blessings that come from seeing life in a new way.  A baby crowing with delight when hearing stirring music played by a bell choir, a preschooler excitedly urging a reluctant mom to embrace a first roller coaster ride or savoring orange slices dunked in chicken soup (hmmm…)—simple daily experiences remind us of the joy God intends for those who love him.

 

Prayer: Creator God, thank you for your promises of blessing and restoration.  As we seek to be faithful to you, give us an appreciation for seeing life in new ways and the courage to be agents of your hope, joy and laughter.  Amen.

 

Barry and Alinda Stelk