Sometimes we do our best to describe something by using a common word or phrase to describe something else. This is called a simile - defined as "a figure of speech in which two unlike things are explicitly compared" (Dictionary.com). Perhaps simile is not the best descriptor, but it's the best I have. Sorta like, "He's so dumb the doctor slapped his ...)". Or, "she sings like a 10lb weakling on steroids". Descriptive, right? I read something yesterday morning that seems to fit so well. It's a great explanation of what "joy" is. The Psalmist writes, "You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound." (Psalms 4:7 ESV) The image I get is of a party thrown at the end of harvest. "Great harvest, Joe!" "Yep. That was huge! Think I'll celebrate by having another ..." Dancing, off-key singing, eating, drinking, loud laughter, music (or something that resembles music), expressions of extreme pleasure. The kind that makes the next morning full of regret because of the hangover. Ahhhh, but the Psalmist knows pure, clean, heart-filling joy. He says, "God has put MORE joy in my heart than the party that went on all night." The celebration, music, prolonged, deep, laughter, mixed with a swelling of heart-felt pleasure born only by the knowledge that all is well. Ahhhhhhhhh, that's real joy. The party fades and the mundane returns along with the repercussions of the night before. But, the joy of God that floods the soul surpasses because its residual is continued pleasure and a blessed memory of those enduring moments. Yep, the joy that comes from above surpasses all of the parties and celebrations that can possibly be designed by our small mundane worlds because it comes from outside of this world. It is truly a touch of Heaven. God, help us to not be satisfied by the pablum of this world but ever seek the fullness of the next.
