Finding Joy

Finding Joy
 
Wait. Lent doesn’t just mean giving up something for 40 days? Whoa - I have given up a lot of chocolate over the years. Pastor Tari says one of the themes of Lent is metanoia - “to turn around, think differently, or repent.” For the past several Lenten seasons, I have been mindful of finding joy. And no, I can’t use the “what I am thankful for” Thanksgiving trilogy, “I am thankful for my family, friends and health.” Each day I try to find three things that bring joy. It can be a bird in the feeder, a shared laugh with a friend, a sentence in a book, a walk, a wave from a neighbor, a hug, etc. There are times before I fall asleep that I struggle to find one item. Other days, the moments are bubbling over. As I get better of being aware of joy throughout the day, I find that my days are happier. In John 15:11, “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.”  
 
Dear God, Thank you for your blessings of joy throughout the day. Please help me to be mindful of them and to cherish each one. Amen.  
 
Blessings, Kristin Wright