How are we to maintain joy in this present situation? Joy is defined as the emotion evoked by the prospect of possessing what one desires. What is it that one desires? We can think of many earthly things that bring us joy; a vacation, a new purchase (a house, a car, golf clubs, etc.), a winning hockey team, a promotion, a compliment and the list goes on. True, fulfilling these desires brings us joys, but none are lasting.
The real question is, what brings us everlasting joy? Psalm 42 v1 answers that very question. "Like the deer that yearns for running streams, so my soul is yearning for you, my God" (NRSV). We are seeking to be with God, to be in communion with God. Joy becomes complete when we are in fellowship/communion with God, with Jesus, and with one another. Only God can satisfy the longing of the human heart. God has put his laws and decrees into our minds and written them on our hearts (Heb 8:10). When our life is not in line with our heart's longing, we become restless, and joy can not flourish. God, however, gives us the Grace. We can share in the holiness and character of Christ, which is manifested by our charity, the benevolent goodwill toward humanity, especially toward the needy and suffering. This is what many are learning to do during this time of anxiety.
In this pandemic, we hear of and see many people who are being there for each other. I hope that our generosity of time, talent and treasure is extended to the poor, the homeless, the distraught, the elderly and the vulnerable, and not only to our immediate circle. An imbalance in power, in nature, and wealth has been created. As our lives have slowed down, let us take the time to rethink our economics and our priorities to be in balance with the will of God. Keeping the whole world in mind, not just North America, we must ask ourselves what changes are needed and how are we going to accomplish this? Or, are we going to try to go back to our old ways? Yes, life will be difficult through this transformation. As St. Paul said in his letter to the Romans(5:3-5), "... we boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, endurance produces character, character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us" (NRSV). Let us keep on moving in a balanced direction.
Peace and joy come to us when our desires line up correctly. I pray that all are doing well and reach everlasting joy.
R.C. Church, Raymore
