joy

Day 98, Psalm 98

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In this Psalm, Israel is celebrating the completion of God’s Temple and rejoicing that His presence is dwelling with them. In 2 Chronicles 7, we learn that Israel celebrated the dedication of the altar for seven days and the Festival of Shelters for seven days. The priests sang: “His faithful love endures forever”. In this great season of celebration, music spilled from their hearts.

As I paused to imagine this type of joy, I had a memory from my childhood. One summer day, when I was a young girl, I was sitting outside my grandmother’s house in North Dakota. I looked up to see my uncle walking towards the house. His feet were almost off the ground, he was sort of skipping and was making a joyful sound. He had the happiest news. His daughter, Amy, had just been born. He could not contain his happiness.

I imagine the happiness that Israel was experiencing during this season was like my uncle, times 100. The Lord’s presence filled them with love and confidence and they couldn’t stop expressing joy.

Sing for joy to the LORD, all the earth; praise him with songs and shouts of joy! Psalm 98:4

See you tomorrow for Psalm 99

There is Joy

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My smart phone recently created a slideshow for me using my photos from the last several months. I usually ignore these automated gestures, but this time I watched it. I was surprised at the joy I felt as a collage of smiles from family and friends popped up. Memories of laughter and the beauty of nature, all of these moments captured during this time of great trials in our life’s journey.

It made me stop. Gratitude filled my heart.

I wonder, with great anticipation, what my spiritual photo collage will look like, when I look back to see where Jesus was as He walked with me, and with you, during this time of great trials. I think we’ll see powerful images of his faithfulness and everlasting love for us.

Although we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we will not fear, because you, Jesus, are with us. 9Psalm 23)

Kindling for Joy

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Lord, your will for us is perfect. In times of stress, your will and your words, challenge us to rise up and push in the opposite direction of our worries. Today we will pray and thank you for everything we can think of all day long. This will rekindle our joy. Thank you for your encouragement! 💛🙏