Be Joyful 

   It takes so little to bring joy to a child.  A new toy, regardless of cost; a hug from a loving parent; watching a worm wriggle across the sidewalk; all these things can give boundless joy to a youngster.

   How wonderful it would be if we could hold onto that ease of being joyful as we mature.  Sometimes I wonder if the innocent child is not far more mature than the so-called adults.  They understand how to enjoy the simple things in life.  They are amazed at each new discovery they make.

   Children usually have two speeds, full speed ahead or full stop.  They play as long as they have the energy, then crash once their energy is spent.  Adult’s, on the other hand, work long hours to obtain things of little lasting value in search of the joy a child finds in the simplest of pleasures.  New cars, new houses, more money mean little to our children, but many adults work themselves into ill health to get more of things that will belong to someone else once they are gone.

   There is so much joy to be had in this world if we take the time to notice it.  In our efforts to obtain more earthly pleasures and treasures we overlook the simple things that can bring the greatest joy.  The true treasure is the love of God and love for one another.  Nothing else really matters and nothing other than this love will bring true joy into our lives.

   Children know how to be joyful; we need to learn from them.  Jesus said, “Let the children come to me and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matt 19: 14).  If the kingdom belongs to the children, let us become more childlike in our love, our faith, and in our trust in God. 

You said we are to be like a child.

Give us a childlike trust.

Help us to see the joys of this world.

That we may find greater joy in knowing You. 

Amen