“‘Tis the season to be jolly, FA LA LA LA LA LA LA LA LA!”

Who just sang that in their head as they read? My real question for you today is who believes that in their heart? Does this season fill you with joy? Or are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or sad?

The season of Christmas conjures up various feelings in us. Depending on our background experiences or current circumstances, each of us may be feeling less than joyful. Today is Water walking Wednesday. Being a water walker often means doing the opposite of how you feel because of your faith in Jesus Christ. Today I challenge you to be joyful, despite your background experiences or current circumstances. Today I encourage you to put yourself in Mary’s shoes for a moment. Read Luke 1:26-38 when the angel visited Mary. Consider the social ramifications of her situation. Imagine all the feelings she may have been feeling. Yet, Mary chose joy. Her joy was found in her faith, not in her circumstances.

“And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.””
‭‭Luke‬ ‭1:46-55‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Today I challenge you to walk on water and choose joy. Despite your current circumstances , may you choose joy that is found in your faith. If you are feeling less than joyful, may you walk on water and choose joy anyway!

***Note: I realize the holiday season can be less than joyful for those who have lost loved ones. Join our Pastor Charles Wilbanks on December 13th at 6:00 for “Facing the holidays-managing expectations-facing the challenges.” This will be a program about grief and the holidays.