Sounds of Joy and Gladness
Today’s scripture selection: Jeremiah 32-36
Key verses: Jeremiah 33:10-11
One of my favorite things to do is work with the young children of the congregation I serve as pastor.
Oh, from time to time, they get a little out of hand. They get a little carried away; there is the occasional “meltdown” when one of them doesn’t get his or her way. They are, after all, human children – and that’s human nature. But, most of the time – they are a pure joy to be around.
And, that’s the sound they often make – sounds of joy and gladness.
They laugh, snort, and cackle for all their worth. It doesn’t take much to get them going. A silly joke; a funny face; a surprise treat; a well-played game. They go at it with complete abandon. And that is something that we adults sometimes find it difficult to do.
Burdened by all of our “adult” responsibilities; worried over all we have to do or all we have done that we shouldn’t have – it gets us down – and it’s hard to smile – much less “cavort”.
But, the Bible often reminds us that we should laugh, and sing, and give thanks, and make sounds of joy and gladness – often.
Even in the midst of judgment, a merciful God promises restoration. That was the case when the prophet Jeremiah spoke to his people about both judgment and hope.
So, yes, life can be difficult – very difficult.
It’s only natural that you will, at times, find little to laugh about.
But, try to find it. Try to find the mercy hidden in the judgment; the grace hidden in the pain; the hope hidden in the sorrow.
And when you find it – make sounds of joy and gladness.
After all, you’re a child of God.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for giving me the ability to find joy even in a world filled with pain. AMEN.
