Joyful Heart

 

Palm Sunday!  There were many hearts that I wanted to write about this Palm Sunday.  I chose a Joyful Heart to God!  When I read any of the Gospel’s account of Palm Sunday, I can’t help but smile as I read how the people of Jesus’ time welcomed him into Jerusalem.  Although His entrance was on a meager donkey, the King of Kings received the praises that He so justly deserved.  How wonderful it must have been to be among the crowds who were spreading their cloaks and waving palm branches high in the sky!  How happy they all must have been. 

Being happy tends to be associated with a certain situation.  We can be happy about many things, a situation that leaned in our favor, a compliment, recognition, etc.  All of these and many more can bring happiness to our lives.  Joy is an emotion so much richer than happiness.  Joy is deeper and more internalized.  Times in our lives can bring happiness to the forefront, but when have you felt true joy?

Our joy is anchored on the shoulders of Jesus.  Knowing that unconditional love, unconditional acceptance and forgiveness of sins come from the One who entered Jerusalem on a donkey can bring true joy.  That knowledge brings a joyful heart to God.  That level of joy is rooted in fertile soil, bringing rich growth to our lives.  If you have experienced joy, you know that it sets your heart on fire.  Joy grows from within you; happiness happens to you.

When I reflect on when joy seeped from my soul, it was when I married my husband with God a strong part of our relationship.  It was when I saw my children confirmed, knowing that God was planted firmly in their hearts.  There was joy when my grandchildren were baptized/dedicated.  A smile crossed my lips on those occasions, but I also remember crying tears of joy.  The emotion was something deeper, something richer.

Our joy comes from the trust and simple faith we have in Jesus.  It is seen not just in times of goodness, but it also evident in challenges.  James 1:2 states, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds.”  Joy during trials?  YES!  Even in those times, even more so, we feel Jesus’ unconditional love, acceptance and forgiveness of sins.  Joy sets our heart on fire.  Although we will face difficulties, we have joy in knowing that God is there with us, walking right beside us.

On this Palm Sunday, may we share our joy for Jesus as we sing “Hosanna in the Highest.”  May the joy that fills our hearts be shared with Jesus not just on Palm Sunday, but every day.  His mercy, grace and blessings are worthy of our joyful praises.

Video that complements this post:  Joyful Heart

Dearest Jesus, Hosanna in the Highest!  We thank you for giving us the joy that only You can give.  May our joyful hearts reach you each day.  Amen!