From the childhood to grey-haired stage of life, things that give us joy change. We grow from being satisfied with a cup of ice-cream to playing with friends in the park, having a good dinner, taking a pleasure trip, reading our favourite books, meeting with good old friends, and so on. But nothing can be compared to the joy that comes to the soul that, after having been detached from the fountain of its being, is restored it back to the source that nourishes and cleanses. It is like a fish, having been taken out of water and struggled gasping for air, receives joy when it is brought back into water. The contrite spirit of David yearned deeply when his sin separated him from the divine presence and company, and wept for mercy: “Restore to me the joy of Your salvation And sustain me with a willing spirit.” (Ps 51:12) Nothing can be compared to the joy that the spirit of the individual experiences when he or she feels the enfolding presence of the divine, as mentioned again by David: “For You have made him most blessed forever; You have made him exceedingly glad with Your presence.” (Ps 21:6) May we sincerely thirst and desire that God may bestow on us this joy of salvation that satisfies the inmost part of the body, soul and spirit, and make us leap in joy and dance forever.

Abba, thank you for providing us with the joy of Your salvation. Let Your Spirit support us that we may be restored to the privilege of being in Your blessed presence, in Jesus’ Most Joyful Name, Amen.