I Spread Joy
I decided a number of years ago that being the presence of joy is not something that is only focused on at Christmas! I have a Cultivate Joy plaque that lives in my home office as a reminder that I can choose to be someone who spreads joy year around.
To spread joy, you can practice simple acts of kindness like smiling at strangers, giving genuine compliments, performing random acts of kindness, volunteering your time, sharing laughter, sending thoughtful messages or cards, checking in on others, sharing baked goods, and actively listening to others around you. Essentially, you gain joy when you make an effort to brighten someone else’s day with small, positive gestures.
When we serve others, it’s easier to remember that God is joy and that joy is innate within us too. It is really ever present, but sometimes we pay too much attention to the chaos and change in the relative world instead of remembering our divine appointment here. We cultivate joy in our lives by appreciating the gifts that grace us every day. This fourth week of Advent, where we focus on joy, I invite you to live from that wellspring of joy that you are and spread a little extra joy this holiday season. I hope you will be able to join us this Sunday, either in the sanctuary or on Zoom, because it’s always better when you’re with us!
Happy Holidays!
Love, Rev Donna