During my recent trip to the Philippines I learned something about
choosing joy in the most challenging of circumstances. Walking through Tondo
and Estero, areas congested with young and old seeking refuge from typhoon
devastated regions south of Manila, I couldn’t help but wonder at the sound of
laughter ringing through this most unlikely of places. With my physical eyes I
saw a river of trash, dark living spaces with no running water, electricity or
plumbing.
But my spirit found a different story. Despite the presence of demonic
influence and oppression, the presence of Christ and joy prevailed. Children
squealing with excitement at discovering caterpillars crawling along a mango
tree, mothers smiling as their children held hands and played in the street,
warm words of welcome to an outsider and stories of how grateful they were for
family and loved ones, choosing to focus on what they had instead of what they
did not. Where I expected to find sorrow, depression and maybe a little anger,
I found joy, thankfulness and love, deeply moving me to understand what it
means to choose joy over bitterness. Asking myself, what do I choose when life
doesn’t go as planned (which it never does).
This isn’t to say these people are not suffering or experiencing pain…
but that’s the point. Even in the face of suffering beyond what most of us will
ever have to endure, embracing joy over bitterness is a CHOICE they have made,
a choice to follow Christ and not submit to the enemy’s plan. We can’t control
what life throws at us, but we can control our response. We can purpose and
choose to embrace the joy of our savior no matter what the world does to
discourage us.
Every one of us has a unique story. I don’t know of anyone who gets
through this life without experiencing some pain, heartache, or loss. The
people I met in Manila inspired me, left their imprint of hope on my heart,
reminded me to choose joy despite what I might have to face at any point in
time. Next time you face a challenge, consider the following scripture:
For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and
drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you
again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds,
for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let
steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking
in nothing.
What defines you? Is it your physical body? Your situation or
circumstances?
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