There’s no doubt that it’s a clear message from Scripture. Joy is mentioned 57 times in the Psalms, seven times in Esther, and even nine times in Job. However, joy is defined in Merriam Webster’s as “the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune.” Doesn’t it seem odd, then, that in Deuteronomy, doom was predicted for the Hebrews “because you did not serve the Lord your God joyfully and gladly in the time of prosperity” (Deuteronomy 28:46)? Good fortune and faith-based joy may not be synonymous, and the Biblical joy might be more a way of being than an emotion. As God’s people, we are called to a different kind of joy - a joy that is not dependent on prosperity or success, but a joy that extends from our understanding that we are not owed by God, and yet God continues to provide enough. This is a joy that exudes from us in all circumstances, and a joy that spills over into others’ lives.

Lord God, as we experience the Advent season, help us to seek opportunities to serve you through others, not out of pride, guilt, or obligation, but out of joy – pressed down, shaken together, and running over!  Amen

Gracious and Loving God,
We give thanks for the continued faithfulness of those who have answered your call in Poland and the U.S. to serve you through the Evangelical School of Theology. We continue to pray for those involved in the reconciliation project as they work to bring peace into this world. Thank you for  Martin Lancaster's recent and fruitful visit to Wroclaw. We give thanks, oh Lord, for the ways you bring people together in your name. Amen.