Scripture: Philippians 1:3-5
I thank my God every time I mention you in my prayers. I’m thankful for all of you every time I pray, and it’s always a prayer full of joy. I’m glad because of the way you have been my partners in the ministry of the gospel from the time you first believed it until now.
Thought for the Day: This is the same passage from yesterday, but today take note of the connection between thankfulness and joy. As has been said often, joy is not the same as being happy. Joy is the spiritual emotion that rises from an experience of God’s unconditional and relentless love. Joy is the spiritual jubilation that comes when one knows s/he is loved apart from what is happening in life. Joy is the moment when the hospice patient says to me, “Life is amazing.” It makes absolutely no sense whatsoever, but it was real. Or the farm worker in Florida who was working in brutal conditions, but took time to share an apple with me and offer a prayer that was dripping with gratitude. I can’t really explain it, but it was real. Joy comes from glimpsing God, and God’s love, amidst all that life brings our way.
Prayer: Merciful and Gracious God, with everything that comes my way this day, allow me to know and embrace your gift of love. Amen.
