Eastertide
April 19, 2017
Scripture Reading: Psalm 16
Therefore my heart is glad, and my soul rejoices;
my body also rests secure.
For you do not give me up to Sheol,
or let your faithful one see the Pit.
You show me the path of life.
In your presence there is fullness of joy;
in your right hand are pleasures for evermore.
–Psalm 16:5-11
Many times, when I set out to write these devotions, I read the scripture for the day and think, “That about says it all. What more can I add?” Today is such a day. Of course, thinking that doesn’t stop me from trying to say more.
First, the stories of God found in the Bible including in its poetry, tell of one who wants to be chosen. God never forces God’s self on anyone even knowing that having a relationship with God is the best thing that could happen to anyone.
Second, the boundaries God provides for our protection are bountiful in opportunity. God created each of us with skills and talents but allows us to pursue our hearts desires within a wide spectrum of good options. Why are we always looking over the fence to see what we are missing and fail to see what is abundantly near at hand?
Finally, God prioritizes life with joy. Where do we find delight in life within the boundaries of God’s love? Those are the areas for our concentration. God is not a God of drudgery. God is Lord of the Dance. Any dancer will tell us that a lot of hard work goes into his or her performance but nothing replaces the joy of the dance that results.
Prayer: Lord, guide me to the well of joy planted deep in my heart. Help me to hone it and make it a source of joy for others. Amen.