Your Essay

As a general rule, it was Mama's job to proofread all essays. It didn't hurt at all that she was a writer and had a particular way with words! What if you were asked to write a composition on joy? Most of us might have to wait for the "perfect" day -- a calm day, void of frustrations and
aggravations ... date unknown. It's easy to find ourselves peddling furiously as if on a stationary bike: same chores, same scenery, same routine, and the word "joy" is just another word lacking real meaning. The Apostle Paul wrote his discourse on joy in the middle of horrible circumstances: confined to the look and smell of prison walls and shackled to a Roman guard. Although his letter to the church at Philippi could have been sprinkled with complaints, bitterness, and pessimism, it was not! One of the most profound passages of protruding joy is found in Philippians 4: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy -- think about such things ... And the God of peace will be with you." (Verses 8-9). Paul doesn't just give an essay on joy but outlines a pattern of thinking; his is a life absorbed and immersed in something far greater and more prevalent than momentary circumstances. What we see in Paul's words is a heart rendered fully to God through Christ Jesus; yes, a life committed to "shine like stars in the universe" as it holds out the word of life to others (Philippians 4:15-16). Perhaps our days of writing essays are behind us but ... are they? The life we live for Christ is being "proof-read" every day ... others are looking, watching closely for a glimpse of joy, gladness, peace, hope, contentment beyond the ordinary. What kind of essay are you living?