Taking Time #7: Joy

Light-seeds are planted in the souls of God's people; joy-seeds are planted in good heart-soil.

-Psalm 97:11

In the picture above, you will see joy--complete joy! These are my precious friends at Korah. Korah is one of the poorest places in Ethiopia. But the people there that have encountered Jesus are some of the most joyous and alive people I've ever met. On this particular day, the children had just finished their meals. Two precious ones had me write down my name and all my family members names, so that they could know them and study them. As we continued our conversation, we started to talk about Jesus and His unfailing love. I then asked them if they knew any songs that spoke of Jesus. They immediately began singing "I am not Forgotten." I was in awe and amazed at how firmly and confidently these beautiful children were singing these words in full belief. They sang knowing of whose they were--knowing that Jesus never forgets them. As they were singing and I started to sing with them, their eyes brightened. They were excited that I knew a song that they knew as well. I then remembered that I had my speakers and ipod with me. I also had that particular song. So, I hooked up my speakers and we sang "I am not Forgotten" until we couldn't sing anymore. I then started to dance and had them dance with me. JOY immediately entered the space we were in. Jesus was already there, but His beautiful presence continued to grow stronger and stronger as we proclaimed His truth of not being forgotten. He was present in our laughter, singing, and dancing. My heart was moved and I am still in awe and wonder at how precious the love of Jesus is. No matter who you are or where you come from, He comes to those who call upon him. He truly does. Light-seeds and joy-seeds were planted that day because the soil was good in the hearts of those at Korah.

So, today--I remember to take the time for joy to enter into my life. I choose to remember that I am never forgotten and neither are the precious thousands at Korah.

I pray that you take the challenge to take the time to see JOY!

P.S. Click on the song for a beautiful taste of "I Am Not Forgotten".