“As the Father loved me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and your joy may be full.” John 15: 9-11    

For those that know me one of my frequent sayings is "Don't Postpone Joy!" As I reflect back on my life with more years behind me than ahead of me, I try to remind myself to not be to focused on my own joy but rather how to share joy with others, especially those afflicted and in need. In my childhood, adulthood and now approaching my senior years I look back fondly on joyous events in my life with family, friends and the activities and rituals that I have participated in as a member of Bethel Lutheran Church these past 58 years since I was a small boy. Those are joyful memories. Whether it's listening to Pastor John and his messages of living a life of service and creating joy for those in need or now seeing how my new wife leads a life with Jesus through her care for those in need and the joy it brings to many. I then realize it's best to "Don't Postpone Jesus"  because by emulating Jesus we bring joy to those in need, we bring joy to Jesus, which brings joy to us as well.

Prayer: Dear Jesus, Thank you for all the joy you bring to our lives. Help us to be mindful of how you provide for us and help us share your joy with those in need so that they find peace, love and joy in their lives as well. Amen