I Choose Joy

When God breaks the silence after what seems like an eternity, and He steps into our story in real and powerful ways, inspiring angel songs and shepherd shares, we can wonder what took so long, question His methods, doubt the reality. Or we can celebrate God with us, and rejoice in amazing grace.
I choose joy.
 
When God breaks the darkness that everyone’s been walking in, bankrupt of hope and consumed by lack, surrounded by selves and swimming in empty oceans, we can lament that His light isn’t bright enough or maybe the wrong color. Or we can step into the waves of knowledge unveiled and truth revealed, and enjoy the new warmth emanating from its Source.
I choose joy.
 
When God breaks the separation of formerly chosen people choosing people, seeking escape from the vicious clutches of mercy and grace to pursue moments of amusement during seasons of searching, we can complain about the selfless meaning and the stifling wisdom. Or we can welcome the presence and the presents that restore and refill empty hearts with supernal songs and eternal joy.
I choose joy.

When God breaks the chains of addictions that enslave and attractions that ensnare, we can fear the divine unknown and return to our dance with the demons. Or we can embrace a freedom long buried in our baggage, and revel in the feast of victory that brings championship fervor to life.
I choose joy.
 
When God breaks the hatred that divides and conquers, the violence of words and wants, the lies of self service and self destruction, and the tyranny of power real and imagined, we can fight harder and hurt deeper. Or we can lay down our weapons and labels, pick up a cross or two, and follow the One who will guide and guard our footsteps as He brings His chosen ones together in a joy-filled adventure through one life into the next.
I choose joy.
 
When the news gets old, the good goes bad, and the you are full of emptiness, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. A Savior has come to you and for you. It will feel like you found Him, when really He found you.

He is the Word. He is the Light. He is the Peace. And He is yours, as you are His.

Here He comes. Here He is. Here you are.

Choose.