Sharon Kinsey's Reflections

The past month has been a bit tough. Ups and downs of weather in NWI mean those of us with respiratory conditions often wake up wheezing and coughing even though we aren’t contagious. Family members have been hospitalized with significant issues, we are awaiting results of medical tests, the plumbing in an upstairs bathroom is leaking into our family room, the Pancake Supper was postponed, and the list goes on and on. Add to that the constant drumbeat of political discord and even the cost of eggs. My goodness! As someone who leans toward a “glass half full” mentality, I’m having a really hard time practicing my mantra of “TAKE JOY!”

Archbishop Desmond Tutu said, “We are fragile creatures, and it is from this weakness, not despite it, that we discover the possibility of true joy.” I agree with this sentiment whole-heartedly, but I also understand when the archbishop says, “Discovering more joy does not, I’m sorry to say, save us from the inevitability of hardship and heartbreak. In fact, we may cry more easily, but we will laugh more easily, too. Perhaps we are just more alive.”

One of the ways God has changed my life and brought me great joy is through participating in communities of faith here at FPCV. Bible studies, book groups, faith formation classes, teamwork, serving in the kitchen, Session meetings… I’ve gotten to know wonderful folks who care deeply about growing in God’s love and sharing that love with those around them. My church friends are supportive and forgiving. We laugh together and share some tears as we go about the Lord’s business. 

I also believe that God uses the Bible to encourage our interactions. One of the passages of scripture that reminds us that the Holy Spirit lives inside us is Galatians 5:22-23: “…but the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” And there it is – that word JOY. How do we experience and celebrate this fruit of the Spirit if it feels like things are falling apart around us?

As we enter the season of Lent, during our times of reflection, let’s be reminded that after Jesus’ crucifixion, two disciples were walking when they met a man on the road that they didn’t recognize. When they sat with him to eat, they realized they were in the presence of Jesus. What joy they must have felt in the very midst of their anguish! The Bible is full of Scripture that reminds us that we can trust in God’s promises even when we go through times of sorrow, fear, and uncertainty.

As for me, I take comfort in knowing that sunshine and blue skies are ahead, our plumbing can be fixed, family members are healing, and eggs will be in abundance again. If I’m keeping my eyes and ears open for all the evidence of God’s blessings, this will carry me to better times. I can surely rejoice in my Lord’s promises…I’m alive and free to receive and share God’s abundant joy in the world around me.