My Word for 2023 is “Joy”

As Reen shared earlier, my word for 2023 is “JOY.” It’s interesting that most of us don’t normally think of Jesus as having a joyful personality in the face of all the opposition, hostility, and difficulties He experienced. Lately, the series, “The Chosen” seems to have done a masterful job though of showing the serious mission of Jesus and yet His joy in the journey.

The words that both challenge, intrigue, and woo my heart are Jesus’ words in one of His final prayers with the Father for us (who believe throughout all generations) before His death and resurrection, “But now I am coming to You; and I say these things [while I am still] in the world so that they may experience My joy made full and complete and perfect within them [filling their hearts with My delight],“ (John 17:13 AMP).

And my heart says, “Yes, Lord Jesus, may it be so!” I have always loved and found this verse to be true,  “The joy of the Lord is my strength,”(Nehemiah 8:10). In the face of current circumstances while watching the news makes us feel our world is going to “hell in a handbasket” as my mother used to say😊, I find the context of this verse encouraging, “Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

As we trust the Lord in the midst of every and all circumstances, each day is holy to the Lord. We CAN experience His joy. And as we draw near to Jesus in new ways with even deeper fervency, we are promised the privilege of experiencing His full, complete, perfect joy filling our hearts with His delight.”  May it be so for all of you who I know and love so very much. I am praying for you in these times that often seem so dark, may Jesus’ light and life fill you with joy!

And no matter where you are or with whom you may be with (or without), may you feel Jesus’ tender love for you this Valentine’s Day! I say with so much love, “Happy Valentine’s Day dear friend! Jesus loves you and so do I.”

Text, email, or call me anytime. I miss you and would love to catch up! 

Blessings dear friends!