Sparks of Joy
By Anna Andrews
John 15:11
I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!
Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the holy spirit.
No matter what the scriptures say, we may find ourselves caught up amidst the carols and candles,
smiles and singing,
gifting and going,
family and friends,
cards and cookies,
letters and loving words,
overwhelmed, or stretched too thin. Maybe we go from one task to another wondering where to find the joy.
But the verses above remind us that we can be filled with joy. Overflowing with joy. If we are quiet and are aware of God’s nudges, joy can find us.
I have discovered that if I pay attention and let God do God’s work, the sparks of joy can happen. I just have to notice: The Christmas viola duets I played online last week, the St. John children listening excitedly to a recent bell choir anthem, running into several friends I had not seen in ages at the Chamber Singers concert intermission, the Chamber Singers concert, itself.
When I started paying attention, I realize that these sparks had grown and warmed me and my soul was filling with joy.
Dear God:
We thank you for the gift of joy that you freely give to us. Help us to notice the joy as it fills our souls. Nudges are gratefully accepted.
Amen
Anna Andrews is a member of the chancel choir, bell choir, Monday Morning Women and the Staff Parish Relations Committee.