2010:  The Year of Harvest Joy

Joy is something greater than happiness.  It covers a whole lot of emotions since joy is really a state of being.  I think of what the author of Hebrews wrote about our Lord Jesus.  He says we are to “fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.    Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”  Hebrews 12:2-3.

We are told that Jesus suffered as he kept before himself the joy without growing weary.  And so should we do too.  The New Century Version says, “Think about Jesus’ example.  He held on while wicked people were doing evil things to him.  So do not get tired and stop trying.”  Eugene Peterson puts it this way, “Keep your eyes on Jesus who both began and finished this race we’re in.  Study how he did it.  Because he never lost sight of where he was headed – that exhilarating finish in and with God – he could put up with anything along the way:  cross, shame, whatever.”

St. Paul’s, I see a harvest coming and it can be taken at least two ways.   First, there is coming the fruit of the Spirit which includes joy.  You are bearing forth a new level of joy as you follow Christ.  This fruit of joy is very appealing to others.  They are going to want some!  Second, the fruit of this harvest is the new wave of believers who will enter the Kingdom of God this year.  They will be filled with joy, as will be heaven and earth because we know that the Lord Jesus is joyful as are His angels.  “There is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repeats.”  Luke 15:10

Let’s keep our eyes on Jesus!

Your brother in Christ

Christopher

The Rev. Christopher P. Leighton

Rector