Joy, Joy, Joy

During my prayer podcast listening experience yesterday we read from Romans 12: 11-12. Paul, in the previous verses was instructing the early Christians in everyday life. It is here in verse 11 that Paul reminds us to persevere in our zeal for the Lord and to live our lives accordingly.

Did you know that a byproduct of zeal, i.e., living for the Lord is joy? A simple, three-lettered word. Joy can be contagious. It’s hard to be around someone who is full of joy and not be uplifted by them.

I think Paul reinforces the need for zeal of the Lord still in our own time. In our fear-driven reality spurred by the pandemic, now more than ever we need to be bringers of joy to our world. In choosing to express our love for the Lord, by spreading joy to those around us, we are providing for God’s people. Our world needs a reason to smile. The people of our world are hungering for a sense of relief from the turmoil all around.

Wherever we find ourselves now, be it an “essential” worker, someone battling illness, or someone quarantined, we can spread the beautiful message of the Gospels by bringing joy to those in need.

It’s okay if you aren’t necessarily feeling very zealous yourself, the Holy Spirit will guide you. Open your hearts and ask God to use you as a means to help another. Trust that He will lead you. May we all be bringers of joy in our weeks and months ahead.

Blessings to You and Yours!