Choosing JOY

WHAT A NIGHT was my first thought upon waking. Poor Sarah. My "fur-kid" was so pitiful. The fireworks that others ooh and aah over sent her in a trembling, frantic tail-spin. It was a long evening as I did all I could to reassure her the world was not coming to an end.

That being said, I pushed the "re-set" button on my attitude and decided to start the day with happier thoughts. It really is a matter of perspective, isn't it? 

So I'm thinking on two things this morning ...

I'm currently living what I call "from the pulpit to the pew". Although a pastor in The United Methodist Church my health keeps me from being able to work and do those things I so love in ministry. That doesn't keep me from thinking on wonderful memories of years past -- churches served, people I've met, friendships I've enjoyed, laughter I recall ... No matter what our calling in life -- and yes, I do believe we are all "called" -- we choose how we respond to daily situations and people. 

My life is richer due to so many whose path I have journeyed. My hearts sings with joy and laughter as I think on those who have been called to lives that enrich others immeasurably.

Take for example:
Joanna Beck is called to be a realtor and she is an incredible one. It isn't about her success, it's about her joy and passion in what she does. 
Dan Martin is a minister who brings a spirit of joy, laughter and integrity to all he does. His bellowing voice and laugh resound in a room and in your heart.
Ellen Banks works with Social Services. I cannot fathom doing what she does. It is a hard, demanding, heart-wrenching job. And yet she gives her heart everyday to those she encounters.
Tommy Duncan is a teacher. The impressionable lives of hundreds of children have been impacted in am amazing way. He goes above and beyond to help them discover the joy of learning.

I have to say when I think of these four people a smile comes to my face and I recall much laughter in our journeys. Sure I could choose to think of moments of sadness and such. But why? Have I learned from those moments? Of course I have. I hope we can all say we have. But I'm pretty convinced God gave us a "funny bone" for a reason ... or that inner bubble that starts to rise at what sometimes seems the worst opportune moment. Ever gotten the giggles in a meeting? Ever burst out laughing when others are stone silent? Ever feel a desire to start tapping your toes -- even dance a little shimmy?

If not -- well, you should!
Don't think I've gone to preaching or meddling -- I'm talking to myself more than to you.

Not only do I believe we are all "called" in life, I believe we all have something we are passionate about.

I know without a doubt my passion is to tell people who haven't heard and remind people who have forgotten (myself included) that no matter what the world tries to tell you, you have a name NO ONE can take from you: BELOVED CHILD OF GOD. 

Yep, call me a broken record.
If you know me you've heard it before.
If you don't know me and you choose to keep reading my blog you'll hear it again.

No matter who you are ...
No matter what you have done ... 
No matter what you believe ...
No matter how you live ...

Burst out in JOY because the good news is YOU ARE LOVED!

Smile infectiously as you accept your name: BELOVED CHILD OF GOD

I don't know about you but I've encountered them ... those people who walk around and look like they are sucking lemons. Such sour expressions leave an imprint in one's memory. Guess what? Yep: their name is BELOVED CHILD OF GOD. 

I won't deny it. It annoys me. I am only human, after all.
I only want "nice" people to get to claim the name.
I only want people who have accepted their calling in life to wear that badge of honor.

Doesn't work that way, dang it.

And yet as a person of faith I take great delight in the truth that God loves us so much -- saint and sinner alike. Each day in some way I pray we feel the smiling nod of God ... more about that another day.

So as my sweet Sarah is now at my feet snoring peacefully without a care in the world and perhaps no recollection of last night I realize this: it is well with my soul. In the midst of a hurting and broken world, I know there are so many out there living out their calling and sharing their passion. 

And that gives me hope. 

Enjoying the Journey,

Debra

Trust in the Lord with all your heart

and lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.

-- Proverbs 3:5-6