I've got the Joy, Joy, Joy...

Remember that old song, "I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart. Where? Down in my heart, I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart. Down in my heart to stay!" God's deep desire for us is that we come to find this joy. Not moment of happiness, but to be filled to the depths of our being with joy that can sustain us, that will keep us rooted when times are tough. The Christian vocation calls us to places at times void of joy, but we must be joyful all the same.

The Gospel for Sunday, December 13, 2009 (yes, I'm just a bit behind, please forgive me--don't lose your joy over it), comes from Luke 3:10-18. This passage highlights John the Baptist's prescription for finding and sustaining joy. A very similar prescription appears in Matthew 25, but it is being said by Jesus. Joy is sustained when we give of ourselves. This year of service may be one that is draining, frustrating, and challenging in many ways, but it should also be one that buffets your join and sustains you in the Christian vocation.

Keep up the good work as you mentor children, deliver babies, teach art, teach English, hold the hand of an elderly sister, fight the criminal "justice" system, speak kindly with seniors, locate funding for the mission, pass on the faith, and advocate for the needs of the forgotten. The joy is in our hearts for us, and for us to give away. I pray you will be immersed in joy.

Blessed Advent,

Tony