Posted on July 2, 2008 at 6:43am.
I have no doubt that the most illusive quality of the Fruit of the Spirit for me is joy. Lately all I seem to be aware of is how life is pounding away at folks. I am learning that this is not home and the struggles of life will always remind me that I am not home, but it is finding joy along the journey towards home that mystifies me. I know that joy is different than happiness and I remember the kid’s song - I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart but that doesn’t seem to provide a satisfying answer. Right about now you’re hoping I give you an “a ha” moment and tell you of a great discovery, only I don’t have one. I am still looking, joy still seems illusive and life remains a struggle. One thing I do know is God is good and still in control.
Posted on July 1, 2008 at 8:45am.
This is the time of year and the week that we here in America celebrate the freedom we have. As I have had the chance to travel to different countries it has given me the chance to see that freedom is not a given. Each time I return to the USA I am again thankful for the freedom we enjoy. I know that it comes with a high price, it always has. It also causes me to think of the freedom I have in Christ. That too came with a tremendous price one that should cause us to daily give thanks.
