By Heather Wright
Some people start the new year with a word they hope to cultivate in the coming year. As 2022 began, I chose the word “joy” or perhaps the word chose me. Joy seems to have been in short supply these past couple of years. We continue to pivot in the unending pandemic. The emotional difficulties, distress and uncertainty have contributed to severe health problems for people we know and love. Our national divisiveness has embittered us, making us less tolerant and more mistrustful. As a pastor, I am well aware that the depth of these emotional problems are like an iceberg with 90% submerged from view. So how does one seek joy in today’s reality?
Joy is something I have had to savor in the past two years when it came and wasn’t always sure when it would reappear. In desiring more of this in my life, I am seeking a deeper understanding of this word.
According to the Merriam Webster dictionary, joy is defined as: the emotion or expression of well-being, success or good fortune. A state of happiness or bliss, the source or cause of delight. Repeating the words well-being, happiness, bliss and delight, stirs a sense of longing and expectation.
In consulting Biblical dictionaries, the word joy takes on even more color. It is part of a person’s connection to God, having to do with what God does, who God is and a promised future with God. God rejoices and delights. Joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit and a characteristic of the faithful. Joy can be experienced despite our circumstances.
No matter what I am facing, it is still possible to find and live joyfully. This is because joy is the outflow of the connection we have with God. We were created for love, for God and one another, and ultimately we will depart this life and be received into the loving arms of our Creator. So no matter the trials we face, there is a greater story that transcends the here and now. That is cause for celebration and joy.
The Scriptures say that joy is a gift of God. As a gift, it is not something I have to produce or work to achieve, rather I have to open my hands to receive. I find it in relationship with God.
Jesus promised if I abide in his love then his joy is in me and my joy may be full (John 15:9-11). As I stay close, remain with, and keep my heart open to him, I find joy that is complete. I want to lean into that promise.
Even though I can’t manufacture happiness or joy – I can seek after things that feed that part of me that I want to grow. To find more joy, I need to plant spiritual seeds and nurture them to produce a rich harvest. These seeds include meditating on words that bring life, listening to music that moves me, talking to and listening for God, being a part of my church community and gathering to worship (rejoice in) God together, being grateful, reaching out to a friend when lonely and serving others when self-absorbed.
Looking back on my life, I realize my greatest moments of joy came from God’s nearness, God inspiring others in my life with their love, support and encouragement, and God holding my hand through some dark and difficult days and not letting go. In 2022, I want to abide in and grow closer to God so that my joy may be full.
