Are You Able to See Joy in All Things?

~~~~ James 1: 1-11 ~~~~   Mark 8: 11-13 ~~~~

"Consider it all joy..."

Today's reading from St. James is probably one of the most beautiful passages to hold in your heart. If we just look at those four words and not even read further into the following ten verses we have much to think about.

The word 'consider' has a kindness and gentleness about it to me. It is not a commanding word. It does not conjure up visions of a parent shaking a pointed finger at you. It is more of a suggestion... Have you ever tried to look at your life from this point of view? Certainly in our daily lives we can find many reasons to focus on the disappointments and frustrations that present themselves. We can focus much time on how we would like things to be different. But James is simply asking us to consider an alternative view.

Yesterday scripture told us to do everything for the glory of God. Today we hear, oh and by the way, while you are doing all for the glory of God you might as well see it as "all joy". James goes on with his inspiring and encouraging words..."...when you encounter various trials...". He is acknowledging that life can bring some situations that seem far removed from Joy. I am sure you could name several things happening today in your life which do not make you feel joyful.

So we are offered this challenge...Can we persevere when our faith is being tested? Can we look for the 'joy' in spite of what it seems? The verses go on speaking of being 'perfect and complete' in our perseverance 'lacking in nothing' and seeking wisdom from God if necessary.

He makes a strong statement about faith...comparing those who doubt as one being tossed about like a wave on the high seas. 'Driven and tossed about by the wind' without perseverance in faith. As we go through life it is good to have little reminders that God has a plan. We can embrace it or we can resist and make ourselves miserable. The more we resist, I find in my own life, the less likely we are able to 'consider it all joy'.

In the gospel of Mark we have another account of the Pharisees creating their own irritating exchange with Jesus. Jesus is frustrated with these unhappy men who wanted proof for everything. When you want proof you are not acting in faith, because part of you is still doubting. I am certainly one who has asked God for a sign as an answer to a personal decision. Heck, I have gone so far as saying to God, 'If you want me to do this, then I need a huge billboard.' And you know one time he did give me a sign.

A tiny penny was lying on the ground right by the car door. Months before I had used the penny to symbolize trusting in God. After all it does have the words, 'In God we trust' inscribed upon it. The penny; the smallest denomination of currency we have carrying the message we most need to be reminded of.

We certainly cannot expect to receive signs of affirmation from God. And sometimes we just flat miss the signs he does send, because we cannot see as He sees. James knew in his wisdom that seeing joy in all things would require great faith. A challenge that would require a lifetime of perseverance.

I would suggest taking a small penny and placing it where you can see it everyday as a reminder that even if God does not give us a 'sign', through faith we can "Consider it all Joy".

I took this picture of the statue of the Blessed Mother, Mary in the Sacred Heart Co-Cathedral in Houston, Texas. I believe Mary is a beautiful example to us. In her life she persevered through her deep faith. She endured much sorrow in her life and yet was able to 'consider it all joy' through her immense love.

I chose this kaleidoscope image because the blue and the gold seem to be supporting one another. Through faith we can see all things in our life as Joy.

May we continue to persevere so in the end we can say we have run the good race filled with Joy.