Welcome to another day's journey! As we open our eyes to greet the dawn of this new day, give thanks and rejoice in the gift of life. We can turn every day into a joyous occasion, and the best way to do that is to seek ways to love, encourage and strengthen each other. We should rejoice even if we struggle to understand life and how we share the power of the Lord's death, burial, and resurrection.
Paul mentions joy in the Letter to the Philippians, encouraging them by saying: "Rejoice in the Lord always" (Philippians 4:4). In our current culture and the chaos of the times, too many people have lost touch with the good news of the gospel that brings extraordinary joy to this world for all the people (Luke 2:10). Jesus lived and died for all the people, not just Republicans, Democrats, Independents, Jews or Gentiles. To survive, everyone needs to express Christlike love for all people.
Abide in the Lord and gain access to the gifts that promote unity within the body of Christ. Trust the Lord; He will fill our spirit with joy as the Holy Spirit nurtures and maintains a joy that grows into hope for tomorrow. We cannot thank the Lord enough for His sacrifice, but we can render Him the boundless joy we experience in His omnipotent presence. We can also thank God continually, mentioning all people in our prayers (1 Thessalonians 1:2-3).
While knowledge and power make us feel important, love strengthens the body of Christ, the nation, and humanity. Rejoice and gain more understanding of who Jesus is in this earthly kingdom and His heavenly home. We must learn to be patient and forgive each other's faults (Ephesians 4:2).
Rejoice in the Lord. Paul encourages the Philippians to keep rejoicing in the Lord but warns them not to confuse rejoicing in the Lord with finding joy in the things of this world. Joy is a gift from the Lord, and we should use it wisely. The Lord requires His followers to have a humble attitude. Why? Because the Lord knows when we are more concerned about ourselves and our rights, we are a hindrance to the Good News of the Gospel.
Develop a quiet spirit and a settled mind that stays constant even in troubling circumstances. The Lord said: "Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples" (John 13:35). Know who Jesus is, and you will understand His expectations. Yes, the Lord has expectations, for He also said, "If you love Me, keep My commandments" (John 14:15). Whoever says they love God and hate others, they lie, and the truth is not a part of their conversation. We live in a free nation; so, we must not miss this incredible opportunity to show some interest in other people and govern in a manner that benefits all humanity.
Minister Nettie Pennington, Associate Minister, Springfield MB Church
