"I have told you this so that
my joy might be in you and
your joy might be complete."
J oy belongs to children and the childlike. Adults may speak of satisfaction or contentment, but they usually reserve their joy for special occasions when everything seems to be going right.
But not all children are joyous. Some experienced mothers will describe their child as happy, which is to say unlike other children they've had or known. For these fortunate tots, happiness requires only a dry diaper, a satisfactory nap, and a full belly. Given something amusing, they're joyful! But not all children are born happy. So I'm told.
Fortunately, by the grace of God, we can recover, or be given, the joy of happy children. It begins with the realization that God is good, and God has everything in hand, and there's no need to worry. Worry is an option, but it need not be habitual or customary.
Joyful adults recognize that not everything is right; but since they have not been appointed judges or arbiters, and have no authority over many things, they don't let wrong things block the sun or cloud their nights. "It's okay; it will pass."
My mother, who had some experience with children before I was born, called me "Old Sober-sides." I guess, from my earliest days, I took a hard look around and was not too sure this was going to work out. I have to remind myself periodically that I have nothing to complain about. And whatever I am complaining about is not worth it. After more than sixty years in community life, I realize there is always someone in this community who bugs me no end, and it's not his fault. As is said of many old men, "After three divorces, they should have figured out where the problem lies."
Childlike joy is a decision for adults. We put our faith in God, laugh at ourselves, and ask. "What should I be doing right now?"
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.