In the Gospel of John, Jesus reassured the disciples that the joy of discipleship would last even through his crucifixion. “So you have pain now; but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.” (John 16:22) The pain we experience is not contrary to the joy we have in Christ; JOY is available to us in every moment. The Apostle Paul understood this when he exhorted us to “Give thanks in all circumstances.” (1 Thess. 5:18)
To understand this ancient wisdom, we have to explore the differences between JOY and happiness.
“Lasting happiness cannot be found in pursuit of any goal or achievement. It does not reside in fortune or fame. It resides only in the human mind and heart, and it is here that we hope you will find it.” — Tenzin Gyatso, His Holiness the Dalai Lama & Desmond Tutu, Archbishop Emeritus of Southern Africa.
Prayer
Come, Holy Spirit. Fill the hearts of thy faithful people and kindle in them the fire of thy love. Send forth thy spirit and they shall be made new and thou shalt renew the face of the earth. Amen.
(Archbishop Tutu)
Spiritual Practice
This video can guide you through the meditation practice of setting a morning intention. The Dalai Lama spends fives hours in meditation... starting at 3:00am. You can handle this 6-minute clip.
Continue Searching
“When we give something up, we realize that its goodness doesn't depend on our ownership of it.” Read Rejoice in the Lord always—and especially in Lent by Miroslav Volf and Drew Collins. Are you giving anything up for Lent? Why?
Eight Obstacles
Fear, Stress, and Anxiety
Frustration and Anger
Sadness and Grief
Despair
Loneliness
Envy
Suffering and Adversity
Illness and Fear of Death
Eight Pillars
Perspective
Humility
Humor
Acceptance
Forgiveness
Gratitude
Compassion
Generosity
Join the Conversation
Sundays, 11:40am-12:40pm — February 18, 25, March 4, 11, 18
Tuesdays, 2:00-3:00pm — February 20, 27, March 6, 13, 20
Wednesdays, 7:00-8:00pm — February 21, 28, March 7, 14, 21
