You’re addicted to thrills? What an empty life! The pursuit of pleasure is never satisfied.
Proverbs 21:17 (Message)
Hello Friend,
As I sit in my wicker rocking chair in the stillness of my screened porch writing, I
feel relaxed and at peace with the world. How could I not? I am surrounded by the trickling of the fountain, the gentle breeze is quiet enough that my Bible pages are not blowing, and I have my mug of peach iced tea. This is a joy moment.
Yesterday on facebook a friend wrote, “In 2013, I just want to be happy!” I am not sure what that means. To me, happiness is fleeting and based on circumstances. If I am getting a fat bonus this year, I am happy? If I take a vacation to Italy, I am happy? Yet we all read of those with means grasping for more—more excitement—more toys—more high moments and often resort to drugs or alcohol to maintain that peak of excitement. Too often we look for fleeting happiness as evidence of God’s presence . . . of his blessing. Friends, God has far deeper purposes in our lives than transient happiness.
Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you . . .so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them” (John 17). Simone Weil defines joy as “the sweetness of contact with the love of God.” Sitting in my chair communing with God brings me joy. I am content. This year when we are tempted to look for happiness in all the wrong places, let us stop and reflect on the true source of our peace and joy—our Lord and Savior. We are blessed beyond measure. In 2013, I just want to bask in His Presence. Joy to the World, the Lord has come!
Blessed beyond measure,
Linda