For many, this time of year bustles with activity! In our family, we have a string of birthdays, followed by Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and Memorial Day, then punctuated by more birthdays, then Independence Day. In years past, we were also busy attending basketball tournaments and track finals. And to add to the whirlwind, we sometimes had high school and college graduations overlapping all these festivities. In the past, that hectic pace often drained me of the joy and anticipation each celebration held. Fortunately, I have a friend who helped reignite my ability to rejoice and fully embrace each milestone once again!
My friend, Ruth, is someone who embodies the art of commemorating life’s milestones with heartfelt celebrations. I distinctly recall this sentiment as we gathered to honor her daughter, Tayler, in celebrating her college graduation. Ruth treasures the moments that make life's journey remarkable. From births to graduations, weddings to birthdays, and even in times of loss, she follows Paul's counsel in Philippians 4:4, Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. For Ruth, celebrating achievements is a meaningful way to bless those that she loves.
Celebration serves as a powerful reinforcement of our values and priorities. It acts as a poignant reminder of the significant milestones in our lives. Through celebration, we foster a sense of relationship with God and loved ones, preserving and keeping alive cherished memories and traditions. Moreover, celebration brings joy and vitality to the heart; it's fun! Much like King David's exuberant display of gratitude in 2 Samuel 6:14-22, celebration allows us to express the overflowing gratitude within us through physical acts such as dancing, shouting, and offerings. In essence, like King David, we rejoice!
Each day presents an opportunity for celebration through prayer, worship, and acts of service to others. Recognizing that every day is a precious gift from God instills within us a sense of joy and gratitude. As Psalm 118:24 beautifully proclaims, This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
So, how do we transition from merely acknowledging external achievements to experiencing genuine internal joy and delight, which is true rejoicing? One way is by reflecting on the profound gift of salvation we've received through our acceptance of Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Isaiah 25:9 encapsulates this sentiment: This is the Lord, we trusted in him; let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation. Embracing the assurance of salvation fills our hearts with boundless joy, transforming each day into a celebration of God's grace and mercy. The Christian life should radiate joy, happiness, and freedom. It should be a continuous celebration, acknowledging the goodness of God, especially as revealed in the gospel of His beloved Son. While serious moments may arise, they shouldn't overshadow our daily joys and simple happiness. As Christians, we're called to embrace the abundant life that God has graciously bestowed upon us.
Amidst this bustling season filled with graduation ceremonies and various commitments, I urge each of us to recognize that we have the ability to celebrate these occasions regardless of our circumstances or the busyness that surrounds us. Rejoicing isn't contingent on external factors; rather, it's an attitude of the heart that generates joy within us and radiates blessings to those around us. Let's embrace this spirit of rejoicing, infusing each moment with gratitude and celebration, enriching both our own lives and the lives of others to the glory of God.
Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17
In Christ’s love,
Tracey
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