Dwelling places: Joy
Dancing in Malibu
image by m r n
Joy—Latin ‘gaudere’ meaning “Rejoice”
Dwelling Places: joy
What is the state of your soul? This is a common yet deeply personal question that is asked or rather wondered about when coming into a new year, a season of life or simply a regular rhythm of reflection. To know how one is experiencing life—with God, with self, with others. Over the past few days coming back into regular life (meaning off from vacation and holiday fever), the desired presence, emotion, thought and wanting is joy. “Joy to the World” has come into our world as we celebrate Jesus— his birth, his gifts, and share in his love. So why not Joy to be the lingering of all three in this year —His birth, gifts, and love.
Joy is the word I am sitting with entering this new year. It is the longing of my soul for this year and years to come. I want to be able to say and sing from day to day, the familiar chorus “It Is Well With My Soul”
These beautiful and powerful lyrics call us to trust our soul to God for it is our God who created us.
(verse 1)
When peace like a river, attendeth my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say
It is well, it is well, with my soul
PAUSE.
LISTEN.
I encourage you to sit a moment and listen to the song.
PONDER.
What words or phrases stand out to you?
Is there something drawing you closer to God today?
PRAYER.
If so, take a moment and write it down or just pause and offer a prayer to God.
