Gladness

Worship the LORD with gladness. 

– Psalm 100:2

I’m really going to miss the Summer Olympics when they end.  Watching the games every night as a family has been a highlight of our summer.  When Simone Biles won the gold in women’s gymnastics all-around, I cheered and clapped.  When the final American swimmer touched the wall to win the men’s 4x100 meter relay, I jumped up and down alongside Michael Phelps and his teammates.  And when Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt kept his title of “The Fastest Man on the Planet,” my heart swelled thinking of all the children in his homeland inspired by his speed and contagious smile.  

It’s truly incredible to think of how much practice and preparation these Olympians have put in over the past four years.  To see their faces light up when they achieve their goals is inspiring and uplifting.  Victory certainly brings great gladness. 

What have been your favorite moments of the Summer Olympics?  Who has earned your respect and admiration?  What victories have caught your attention?  Whose gladness did you share?

My sixteen-year-old daughter volunteered this summer in the “memory unit” of a local retirement home.  The people she spends time with are the opposite of Olympic athletes: they’ve lost most of their physical strength and their minds don’t remember any of their past victories.  My daughter’s role there is to bring as much gladness into their community activities as she possibly can.  She plays games, colors, passes beach balls around in group circles, and thinks of creative ways to make the afternoon joyful.  Many nights this summer she’s shared with us how she’s actually the one made glad by being around them.  Knowing this also makes me cheer and clap.  

Like a parent, God is pleased when we are glad.  He made us and gave us our unique gifts and talents to use for a purpose.  When we thrive and find success, it’s an opportunity to thank and praise God.  When we serve others we can do it with gladness in our hearts.  

Whatever we do, gladness can be our companion.  When others see our gladness, it’s an encouragement for them to be glad as well.  You don’t have to win a gold medal to obtain gladness, it already exists in your heart.  You can tap into it by serving others or by giving God thanks for all your good blessings.  

The Power of Giving God Thanks Will Ignite Your Faith and Change Your World!

Thank You for Being a part of the 3 O’Clock Wake Up Movement