Rejoicing throughout
James Cathcart
August 09, 2022
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1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 (NRSVA)
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
“How can I rejoice always? How do I pray without ceasing? How can I give thanks in all circumstances? Why Paul? Why do you ask me to do all this?
Is it hyperbole? An exaggeration? Do you really expect me to — all the time?
Is it some kind of pretend-version rejoicing without really feeling it? Praying without really? Giving thanks ironically?
Am I to ignore myself? Ignore the world? It’s impossible…”
Paul smiles at me. After several minutes he says:
“Let me tell you about my nephew. He lives all of life. He buzzes with rejoicing. Sitting quietly lining up grains on a counter he is rejoicing that there are grains to count. He considers the shape of each one. His mind is alive with worries, hopes, questions and he lives it all out, a continual link with God, a conversation that never has to close. My nephew is excited to meet the world and shines love on it. He holds things carefully and with wonder, thanking them for being there.”
“How old is he, your nephew?”
“He turns 2 next week.”
“He sounds wise.”
“He is. Everyday he gives me reasons to rejoice, to pray, to give thanks. I am not always strong enough to follow my own advice, but my nephew is. And his sister is just the same.”
“Thanks Paul.”
“Thank you.”
PRAYER:
Dear God help us to rediscover rejoicing,
to practice praying,
and thoroughly thank you.
Amen.
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