Why is it that sometimes joy just spills over? A status says to find joy in the little things, like clean laundry or baking bread. This appeals to good mental health, and I nod my head in agreement. I look for joy in the kitchen and laundry room.
Then joy finds me. It spills through my whole being, touching everything I do. It comes sneaking into the apartment, and I marvel at my beautiful home, the architecture, the flowers on the desk, the books, and Bibles. I notice the people walking on Broadway in Elmhurst, Queens. I’m amazed how each one is created in God’s image, and I love them all. I am grateful to be a part of the diverse group (50 strong) in the local library, wearing burka, army camouflage, and the one in a white dress who could be a future Miss America. Like me, they tap on keyboards. I belong in this community of writers.
The joy cup began filling this morning when I read, “Even so, when these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:31). God’s message was that instead of focusing on the evil and deception of the day, I should rejoice because soon He will return to gather His children home. O, glorious day.
Joy is deeper than a lovely day. It’s wider than the vast ocean. More majestic than the mountains. It is “the sound of love, the color of gratitude, and the song of hope” (Mary Davis). It’s found in the laundry room or kitchen. It walks on city streets and country roads. It’s in the chapel or library. Joy is the result of a surrendered heart, “the echo of God’s life within us” (an Irish monk).
“May your life be crowded with unexpected joys” (H. Jackson Brown, Jr.).
Berniece 10/9/2026
PS “Misery might love company, but so does joy. And joy throws much better parties” (Bill Ivey). Thanks to Jennifer Messian for the joy quotes.
