Hello friends, and Happy New Year!
I confess I have never been one for New Year’s Resolutions, but this year I did make a goal:
Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice. (Philippians 4:4)
My temperament tends toward joy (not only is my glass half full but how great to even have a glass, right?). But the past year has been challenging, for us all. It’s made me realize that despite my cheery wiring, I have not mastered this biblical exhortation--not by a long shot. It isn’t about good humor or a positive outlook. Neither is it a directive to bury grief or ignore hardship.
I think to rejoice in the Lord always is to walk in the constant knowledge that God the creator and redeemer knows us, loves us, and resides in and around us all the time. The Lord saves. This year I hope to rejoice--always--in that truth, even in grief or darkness. This conscious effort will be my spiritual practice.
I would love to hear your spiritual hopes, and I wish you deep joy in the Lord in the coming months.
Peace and Love,
Bryn
