Just be happy!


Smiley head happy

Smiley head happy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I see people celebrate situations in life.  I am told I should be happy for them.   And I know that often people are irritated that they must remind me to be happy for others.

Should I lie and say I am happy because you bought a new car?   Should I lie and say I am happy that you have a new boyfriend?  Should I lie and say I am pleased that you are near retirement and I know you will have a good time?  Should I lie about the hundreds of things people experience in this world?

Where has the joy of the Lord been, as we celebrate life?  Where has the celebration been because we share the joy of salvation together?  Where has been the delight in God’s law between us?  It was never good and pleasant between us as we climbed the steps to his temple.  How can I be pleased for you in the things of this world when you are not busily acquiring the things of Eternity?

I fear you will die being perfectly pleased with your life on this earth.  They will all speak well of you, and they will recount the wonderous times of joy you had together.  But I will find no joy in your passing.  For you made no attempt to be at peace with the God you have gone to meet.