The (R)ode to Joy
“In everything give thanks” (1 Thess. 5:18a).
Reading Ann Voskamp’s insightful, self-exposing journey from deep depression to a life of joy undergirds and sustains the Apostle Paul’s affirmation, above, that giving thanks is God’s desire for all people. As Ann discovered in her bitter struggle, gratitude is the gateway to joy. I highly recommend her book, One Thousand Gifts, as well as the sequel, The Broken Way.
As a student of Koine Greek (language of the New Testament) I keenly appreciated Ann’s tracing of three Greek words: charis (grace), eucharistia (thanksgiving), and chara (joy). Upon close inspection one can see the relation of these three words: they all are based on the same root, char-.
The desire to live joy-filled lives is common to man. I know I prefer joy to angst, misery, sorrow, or any other fear-response to the world around me. I want a calm sense of well-being no matter what might have happened, be happening, or be pending.
Ann, like many others, had to out-live a horrific childhood (read the book to see how deep a hole she escaped from). You and I exist uncertainly in a world full of uncertainty. And world events, perpetrated by evil, greedy, and power-hunger men, can steal our sense of well-being…if we let them. That is the key in this book, she gives us a clear and easy to follow path to joy.
Grace (charis) abounds, even in the middle of turmoil and corruption. God is good, even when men follow their self-promoting ways. It is my option—and task—to look for that good. It is always there and will be found be any who look for it. To see the morning sun warm a smiling pansy is a gift!
Gratitude (eucharistia) is always an appropriate response to the gifts given by grace. Gratitude, or giving thanks, helps us to focus on the Giver, helps us to realize His faithfulness in filling our lives with good things to be enjoyed, helps us to see His care.
Joy (chara) flows naturally from gratitude. Realizing that the Giver cares about us allows each of us to feel secure in the present. Events of the past cannot define or mold our mood if thankfulness overrules; but gratitude for the gifts can. Current events cannot pierce our poise because our hearts are focused rather on the good around us. And concern for the future melts into confidence in the One who holds the future. That is joy.
Gratitude is the key. It connects us to the faithful Giver and protects us from the uncertainties of this turbulent world, at least from those who have no joy. If you want more joy, look for the gifts in your day, large or small, and be grateful for them. Then, savor the smile.
Let Joy abound!
Rod MacArthur
206.949.0325
rod_macarthur@comcast.net