Pouring out His Joy

Not completely sure where I'm going with this post.

But, yesterday I switched sites and went to the Child Sponsorship site, which was fine until our house visit in the afternoon.

It wasn't the poor conditions of the house. It was this woman's story, as she poured out to us all the crappy things that has happened to her in the past and the trial she is currently going through. But I saw the joy she received from her three daughters and I saw her strength in her recently refounded faith.

As I listened to her story, I realized that she's probably seen more sorrowful days than joyful, and that breaks my heart because, I on the other hand have had my share of sorrowful days, but my joyful ones are overflowing. With that... I have honestly felt guilty. Of course, I know that I shouldn't feel that way, I have no reason to... God has blessed me and there is nothing wrong with that.

Yesterday, I also shared my testimony during the summer staff meeting (it was my turn!) and then we traditionally pray for the person who just shared. Common denominator: I am filled with joy and it is contagious. (not trying to be conceited here)

I think joy is one of the gifts God has given me and one that I need to use for His glory. There's been numerous times this summer that I have recognized my ability to bring a smile to someone's face, wether it be through the acknowledment of the elderly at the nursing home or the children I have played with, through the people I have hugged or through my conversations with friends. And this, fills me with more joy.

I also realized yesterday that Romans 12:15 needs to be lived out.

Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.

I stopped myself from crying, but Jesus wept with those who are weeping.

It was good for me to see and meet that family, to be faced with that reality of Guatemala. I've been running around with Media, loving it every bit, but missing the facts.

Today, I did my "job" differently, I poured out my joy as much as I could, because it is something God has given me and it is something I want to share. Because it's God's.