“Joy”

I have great joy and encouragement because of your love, since the hearts of God’s people are refreshed by your actions, my brother.”  Philemon 1:7

March 8, 2023

 

Yesterday, I took a couple of my kiddos to a trampoline park around dinner time.  In this area, there are a couple places one can go to do this.  Imagine kids running all over large area jumping on a floor made of trampolines. Sounds like a fun night, right?  Okay, maybe it sounds fun for children with fresh/young knees!  When I took them to this trampoline park, we were basically the only ones there and we had free range to the whole facility.  Sometimes, it can be very crowded, which can be a little stressful!

As I followed some of my kiddos around, they jumped for joy with smiles on their faces.  Their joy brought me some joy!  I love seeing them happy and playful!  This scripture from Philemon speaks of joy today.  In this letter, notice how it was because of another’s love that brought about great joy and encouragement.  When we see or experience someone’s love, it can also bring us great joy and encouragement.  When I watch my kids play in a trampoline park, outside, in the house, etc., it brings great joy to this father’s heart.

This encourages me to consider places in my own life where I can bring about joy in the lives of other people.  I know that the love of others has brought me a great joy and I only can hope that my love toward others brings about great joy as well.  Where is it that you have great joy and encouragement today?

Amen.

Jake