I love fall. The weather is cooler. The hot summer winds have abated. Gentle fall rain clears the air and intensifies the panoramic fall leaf color. Everyone is outside enjoying the wonderful weather. We greet our neighbors as they are walking their dogs and playing with children and grandchildren.
Many people look forward to Halloween parties with their costumes while others detest the ghoulish atmosphere of the celebrations. This year I celebrated the fall season with decorated pumpkins. I had an artistic friend paint happy faces on pumpkins and then gave them to others as gifts.
Too often we Christians have a reputation of being sourpusses and party-poopers. Nothing should be further from the truth for we have a joy that others cannot experience. According to a hymn we sang in my childhood church, we have joy unspeakable and are full of glory.
For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Romans 14:17 ESV
So what are you doing to spread joy to those who encounter you as you go about your daily tasks?
Lord, make me aware of the joy you have put into my heart no matter what is happening around me. Show me how to spread your joy to those you place in my path each day. Amen.
