Archive for January 22nd, 2008
Rejoice
Today was a busy day (January 21), handling all sorts of responses to the article in Heartlight and going out of town for an appointment. The comments in response to the article and the upcoming trip to Uganda brought tears to my eyes as several folks told some of the most moving stories about ministering, adopting, and sharing their own children to help the impoverished children in parts of Africa.
Yes, part of my tears were due to the profound sadness at so many children who will not have much chance to ever enjoy a life with many of their basic needs met. But another reason for these tears came from a deep sense of joy: joy at being included in a circle of people who are moved by many of the same things I am.
Because I was behind on my reading, I read both Luke 15 and Luke 16. I’ll leave Luke 16 for tomorrow, but tonight (and actually it’s well into the new morning) I can’t help but notice the primary focus on joy in Luke 15.
//Inspiration: Luke 15:31-3
“‘My son,’ the father said, ‘… we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ “
//Incarnation:
In the crush of life and ministry, I so easily forget that God about salvation and joy. When I lose sight of this element, I lose my passion for ministry very quickly. Celebrating with those who turn their lives completely around and live for Jesus is a must — when the father in the parable, the God figure, says “we had to celebrate” then I get the clear message that I have to do so as well! The fresh spark of enthusiasm as salvation washes over someone is precious, envigorating, and restorative. I’m thankful to get to sink so much of life into the kind of work that allows me to get close to these kinds of moments, but I must never let them become commonplace or joyless.
//Invitation:
O God of grace and mercy, use me to bring You joy by bringing back others to you. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.