Start With What Brings You Joy

The other day I had the most wonderful surprise. While watering the plants in my office I came across new life in one of my planters. The pot contained several varieties of plant cuttings, from an umbrella plant to a mix of different types of croton. At one point a black raven plant resided there as well but had suddenly withered up a few months before. But now four lush purplish green starts had taken its place.  It's amazing to see how resilient plants can be. Sometimes a little light and water can bring a plant back to life. Other times they need to be cut back so that their roots have the energy to regroup.

As we start a new year, many of us are working to be our best self. In the past few weeks following Epiphany, we have been reminded of the gift of Jesus to the world. God’s love is everywhere and as his children, it is reflected in us. In Isaiah 9:2-4 we are reminded of the power of God’s presence in the world. We are told “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness — on them light has shined.” The prophet Isaiah goes on to say that God has increased the joy of God’s people, explaining that God’s love has eased their struggles: “For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian.” God’s light is all around us, present in every moment of our lives. Yet sometimes it is hard to shine brightly and find joy, especially in the face of adversity with the weight of the world seemingly on our shoulders. 

There are times where our experiences cause us not to be at our best and our hope seems to wither away.  In many ways, we are like the plants in my office. A little TLC can go a long way to getting us back on track. Taking a break from the stresses of everyday life is important, whether it be a few days away on holiday or a good nap, any time for ourselves is good for the soul. Street artist Banksy once said, “If you get tired, learn to rest, not to quit.” And still, just like my black raven plant, sometimes we need to let go of things that are preventing us from being healthy and happy.  We have to choose the simple things that help us to shine. To quote theologian Henri Nouwen, “Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day.”

God needs us to shine brightly, especially now. We can’t burn out when so many still need to experience the light of Christ. Pastor Rober Schuller stated, “Tough times never last. Though people do.”  So, what will you do to keep shining?  Start with what brings you joy.

Rev. Julie Sterling