DAILY READINGS: Gen. 1:1 to 2:3; Job 1:1 to 2:10; Matt. 1
The joy of Jerusalem was heard even afar off. Nehemiah 12:43b
Joy! So real and compelling that it echoed and rolled off the hills of Jerusalem. How it must have attracted those who heard it! How it must have blessed those who were a part of it! This joy was a crescendo note, begun by two choirs that had walked different paths around Jerusalem but who had found fullness of joy in the same place—God’s presence. We will all walk different paths this year, in pastures green and on mountains high, but also through valleys dark and waters deep. No matter the experience, true joy will always be found in the same place—His presence. Come to that place often. Rest and remain. The joy you find there will be your strength—just when you need it—and echo even to those afar off. —S. McEachern
My God, the Spring of all my joys, the Life of my delights,
The Glory of my brightest days; Comfort of my darkest nights! —I. Watts