The past couple of weeks we’ve been inundated by Lady Asian Beetles. They masquerade as cute little ladybugs, but they are the evil cousin to our traditional ladybug that gets all the positive press in pictures, notecards, etc. They swarm, they gather, they march in any crevice they can find, looking for a warm spot to live and multiply. They have been a scourge. I have much greater sympathy with the Egyptians of the Exodus plagues…
But today I am reminded that we have the grand opportunity to CHOOSE JOY. I say this with trepidation, knowing that it isn’t easy to do. It’s much easier for me to wallow, at least for a little while. To feel sorry for myself. To look for sympathy for my issues. To think I deserve better. But I know that this is the life-giving path for me to look UP, to look outside myself, to let God have His way in my life sanctifying me, loving me, being my greatest comfort and stalwart support.
So join me today in looking for the beauty in life, whether it’s in a dozen roses from the grocery store, the fall colors, a sunset or sunrise, or yes, even in a piece of pottery or other handmade article you find. Let’s CHOOSE JOY, and then let’s spread it to the others in our lives!
________________
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” I Thess. 5:16-18
“When my anxious thoughts multiply within me Your consolations delight my soul.” Ps 94:19
