A Joyful Moment
If you are looking for a great place to take a vacation (and you are military) definitely check out Short Stay Navy Outdoor Recreation Area. This little quiet spot is located near Moncks Corner, South Carolina. It’s operated by the U.S. Navy for active duty military, reservists, personnel, retirees, and their family members. This is a favorite spot for our church’s annual women’s retreat.
I had a chance to stay in one of the villas for a second year in a row. The villas look out over the peaceful waters of Lake Moultrie. I love to look at large bodies of water (notice I said look – I’m not a swimmer). The imagery is powerful and pulsating no matter how often you view the same scene. Being a very visual person, the water reminds me of how small I am and the greatness of an Almighty God. These moments bring me unspeakable joy because I know I’m under His protection.
But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. Psalm 5:11 NIV
Our speaker this year was Tricia Stoner and her theme centered around “Joy.” She shared some humorous and honest stories of her ten years as a missionary in Slovakia. While I never lived overseas, I found myself being able to relate to her stories of loneliness, language barriers, and homesickness for the states. When I’m going through trials, I feel very small and overwhelmed in the sea of my troubles. During those times when we are feeling alone or misunderstood, the waves of remembrance rolls over us and the Almighty God seems nearer to us. He has been calling all along to sit with him, but we keep right on with our jam-packed schedules. As our to-do lists get longer and the days seem to zip by, we become stressed, depressed, frustrated, irritated … you name it. Joy is the last thing on our mind. It’s the last thing on our mind because our priorities are out of wack!
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2
The JOY-less life is not what God has in mind for us. Jesus had his priorities together. In his journey, all the way to the horrific cross experience, he went through all of this for “the joy set before him.” He knew the trials he had to go through, but he also knew what was on the other side. I should not wait until the next time I go away for a relaxing retreat or the next time I’m going through a trial to seek joy. Moments of joy do not have to be far and in between. My Father wants me to experience joy by seeking Him continually.
Verses to Remember
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. James 1:2 NIV
Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete. John 16:24 NIV
