Life comes in cycles. When you find yourself in a lull, a struggle, or sometimes a really dark place, it helps to know how to find joy – pause right where you are, look up, focus on the bright spot.
As I walked through the entrance to my nephew’s wedding reception, I paused for a moment to look up. The most amazing vine sprawled overhead, loaded in heavy fruit, one amazing grape lit from within.
Many passed through this same gate. I wonder how many looked up?
It was sheer delight to stand under such a lush vine, having planted grapes in so many places only to move on before they bore fruit. In a hurry to get where I was going, I could have missed this extravagant Gift.
The first key to how to find joy? Slow down. Breathe deep. For a breath, maybe two. Take in the beauty around you. Focus on the bright spot. There is always something to be discovered in the moment on the way to where you’re going, no matter where you find yourself today.
Sun brightening.
Birds declaring.
Fall colors promising.
Fruit sweetening.
All reflections of God’s heart toward us. Gifts offered in the midst of our rushing elsewhere. From seeds planted long ago to bear fruit for this very day.
Consider this… As you move through this day take time to pause, breathe, and look up. You might just discover surprise offerings. Reminders of how to find joy – evidence of God’s great Love for you.
…rise early and listen to bird-song. Let’s look for wildflowers in bloom, blackberry bushes blossoming white, fruit trees festooned with cascading flowers. ~ Song of Solomon 7:12
Amen.
You encourage me to look up! I so agree, thank youJoanna
Psalm 123:1 To Thee I lift up my eyes, O Thou who art enthroned in the heavens!
Psalm 121:1 I will lift up my eyes to the mountains, from whence shall my help come?
My help comes from the Lord, Who made the heaven and earth,
He will not allow your foot to slip;
He who keeps you will not slumber.
So grateful Terri. Thank you for adding even more perfect scriptures that reiterate how we are repeatedly told to ‘look up’.