Something I read from a Max Lucado book a while back has really stuck with me. He describes the JOY we have with a simple, unique metaphor. He says to think of our joy as a basket of balls that we carry.
You start off the day having your quiet time with the Lord and maybe a nice cup of coffee. The balls are flying all over the place, but then you allow little inconveniences and frustrations to reach into your basket and to steal a few balls here and there.
This visual set so well with me. I envision everyday having this basket now, and when I sense myself becoming frustrated I instantly think about my joy. We all are aware that true JOY is deeply rooted in the Father.
But, why so often do we lose it then?
I ask myself the above question a lot. Because truly every day that I am given I should be bouncing off the walls, for my God is with me. Yet, many days that is not the case. Way too often I allow the problems and minor inconveniences of the day to reach into my basket and harpen on my joy.
How many balls have you already lost from your basket today?
Recently, some of the balls in my basket were shaken up and stolen. Myself along with a few others from my team received positive Covid tests. This meant we immediately had to go into quarantine. We were unable to leave our hotel room; much less, say goodbye to the sweet ones we had been doing life alongside on the mountain.
As I write this, we are approaching day 11 of this quarantine period. After spending time at Jesus’ feet, He adjusted my view of this time. He reminded me of the thankfulness I should possess; Being that, this terrible thing that took so many lives left me just feeling tired and having cold-like symptoms. He drew near in the moments of stillness, and gave me the word ”replenish” to remind me what a sweet time alone with Him this could be. He brought me to Psalm 118:24..
Psalm 118:24 “This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it.”
I cannot help but think what a complete life changer this would be if we woke up each morning with such a heart posture and intent. No matter what is present within my own little world, I want to be reminded of Psalm 118:24. That this is the day the Lord has given, therefore I will rejoice and be glad in it.
Whether I have to travel across valley’s low or mountain‘s high, I long to carry the same JOY being deeply rooted in God.
Lord, this is the day that You have made. Thank You.
Thank you that I am able to experience and see Your goodness all around even when “my little world“ does not seem good.
Thank you for giving us JOY that cannot ever be taken away.
Our Hope is forever You, God.
Your Beloved, kel
Excellent response to the unfairness of being quarantined. I’m glad you could allow Father to replenish your ‘basket’ during this season of alone time
You are amazing!!
I love your ability to see the hands of God and the heart of the Father through trials! Thank you for sharing your sweet perspective. We’re praying for and with you all!