Oct 18

It has been an especially trying season the past two years. There have been numerous changes in my life including my oldest child leaving home to start college and my mom suffering a stroke and now living in an assisted living facility not far from me. And the list could go on and on. But why? Why go there? Like I tell my youngest often, “Your whining is hurting my ears.”
And so I’m not. I’m not going to be a half-empty person. I’m choosing half-full. I’m choosing joy.

Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:16: Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

I made a landscape purchase this summer. These two Adirondack chairs and footstools were built from repurposed metal drums.  Someday (OK, there’s no better time than the present, I know!) I’m going to sit in them, sipping a glass of something cold while reading a good book. For now, they’re my lawn ornaments along busy Highway 4. My daughter Justine made the “Be Joy Full Always” signs (misspelling on purpose as per my request). Every time I go past – whether it’s running, biking or driving – I try to remind myself to “Be Joyful,” no matter what is currently happening in my often-times crazy life.

Be.
Be Joy.
Be Joy Filled.
Be Joy Full Always.
Be Joyful Always.

Lord, help me to be. To just be. Be more aware of your presence. To be the joy that someone else might need today. To be joy filled, no matter the circumstances. To be joyful always, especially when things are difficult and my patience is running thin. I know I only gain this inner joy from knowing you, by loving you and by serving you. Help me to grow closer to you so I have a deeper love for others. Amen.

Rita Meyer is married and the mother of four children age 19 and under. She and her family are members of St. John the Baptist Parish in Meire Grove.

Leave a Comment:

Leave a Comment: