by Pastor Douglas Brauner

Experiencing True Joy

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

Like a kid walking through a toy store, wouldn’t we like to find a little bit of happiness in our lives again?

Back in the dark ages of my life, we didn’t have dedicated toy stores, yet, there was always the hope of finding that toy that had been advertised during Saturday morning cartoons at our local department store. And there was the hope that our parents would buy that toy for us.

A toy store can bring a smile to anyone.

“You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”
Psalm 16:11 English Standard Bible

The greatest “toy store” is being in the presence of Jesus. Yet, it is a different kind of toy store. Our toy stores, whatever they might be, are about fulfilling our desires. Not surprisingly, my camera shop is my toy store. When I’m there, I’m focused on what I can get for myself, what new camera gear will fulfill my latest fantasy.

However, these kind of toy stores will only disappoint. What we buy will only grow old, fade, and eventually break. (I have a number of “shelf queen” cameras siting on my shelf, those cameras that don’t work anymore.)

God offers us joy that will last for eternity because it is not rooted in our need to feel happy. It is about finding peace in the presence of the One who gave everything for us. It is about treasure that will not rust because our inheritance is Jesus, the joy of our lives.

So, the next time that you are walking through your “toy store,” whatever that store is for you, remember that these blessings are meant to point us to where are true joy is found; in the presence of Jesus.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado