Notes from the Sermon

This week's sermon, the last in the series, is titled Designed for Joy. I think is a message I need to hear. The head of music is now singing a song inspired by a verse in Exodus about how the people were discouraged in their slavery. She wondered how many of us are discouraged in our slavery to the day-to-day cares, concerns, and disappointments of life. 

There seems to be a disconnect between church people and the God they teach about. We teach about a God of joy, but where is the joy?

According to the Westminster Catechism, our reason for being is to enjoy God forever. 

We hunger for happiness - we thirst for joy. But, for many of us, happiness is elusive. No source of happiness here lasts. This reminds me of C. S. Lewis' comments from A Grief Observed that I read this morning. Interestingly, the pastor is quoting him now - were Lewis tells us we are far too easily pleased, seeking satisfaction at Taco Bell, when we are invited by God to a five-star restaurant. 

Joy is found in God and God alone; but we, as the Buddha teaches, look for happiness in all the wrong places, seeking joy in things that don't last. 

On the other hand, Paul sang for joy chained in a deep dungeon. When we realize that same joy, we realize our current situation doesn't matter. In all honesty, I'm far too apt to whine. Yes, I find joy easily, but I also am derailed way too quickly. 

Praying for others instead of being fixated on our own situation brings joy. It's a question of where our attention is focused. Spreading the Love of God to others brings joy - in word and service. 

Stop whining, arguing, and complaining. When you live like this, there is no room for joy. The more we fixate on our problems, the more our problems and complaints become who we are. I need that on a t-shirt. I'm SO busted. 

The things if this world that we want or achieve or prize are straw when compared to Jesus. Thomas Aquinas says straw, the world Paul uses in Philippians is crap. 

There is joy in the faithfulness of God. 

Practice rejoicing - it's like physical therapy - we build up our capacity for joy. 

Think on what is good, beautiful, etc. Find joy in Christ. It's there.