Becoming the Gift of Joy
As we move through a world often marked by division, struggle and inequity, joy can feel like a luxury — something reserved for moments when the work is finished, the systems are healed and justice is finally won. But our ancestors, in every movement for liberation, have taught us something profoundly different: Joy is not the reward for justice. Joy is the fuel for justice.
To be the gift of joy is not to ignore the world’s pain. It is to walk in that pain with a spirit that says, “You are worthy of delight. You are worthy of moments that remind you of your dignity.” Being the gift of joy may look like:
• Holding space for someone to rest without guilt.
• Sharing a word of affirmation in a world that often silences.
• Creating art, music, dance or poetry that reflects our dreams instead of our fears.
• Offering a smile, a listening ear or a moment of humor in a heavy day.
In this season, may we recommit to being both seekers and bearers of joy. Let us practice joy as a radical justice-shaped act.
“Those whom the Lord has ransomed will enter Zion singing, crowned with everlasting joy;” Isaiah 35:10
May we be that light — God’s gift of joy to our community.
