Lighten Up

Recently one of our staff was telling me about the opportunity he had to meet Michael W. Smith.  He was so stinkin’ excited that he got to shake his hand and get his picture taken.  I smiled politely and said “Wow, that’s great” with as much enthusiasm as I could muster.  You see, I worked in the Christian music business for 9 years so hanging out with Christian celebrities doesn’t feel that exciting to me anymore.

But as Blake walked away, I was totally convicted that I didn’t celebrate his joyful moment.  That was an exciting opportunity for him.  Smitty is someone he looks up to, admires, and respects.  He made a memory with that meeting.

Sometimes, well… most of the time, I take life way too seriously.  I miss the little moments… the sweet celebrations… the pockets of joy in an otherwise hectic world.

We can never under estimate the power of “joy.”  I’m pretty sure it’s a fruit of the spirit for a big reason.

By definition Joy means:

1. the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying; keen pleasure; elation
2. a source or cause of keen pleasure or delight; something or someone greatly valued or appreciated
3. the expression or display of glad feeling; festive gaiety
4. a state of happiness or felicity

Dallas Willard says

Full joy is our first line of defense against weakness, failure, and disease of mind and body.

This joy stuff is pretty powerful!

For you make me glad by your deeds, O LORD;
I sing for joy at the works of your hands.

Psalm 92:4

What joyful moment do you need to embrace today?