Rejoice with those who Rejoice

“Rejoice with those who rejoice”.

I love any reason to celebrate. I am wired to plan a party, join a party, (and in my party girl years, I was the “life of the party” in the 80’s)… now in my 50’s, I have grown to understand more deeply what it means to “rejoice”. It’s to give joy to, or to gladden or show delight.

- when my heart is heavy, I’m reminded by the Spirit of the living God to meditate on His promises, Pray. Rejoice in the Lord!

I look back on the formation of Hope Restored Canada in 2015 and Joeline (founding vice chair- now ED) suggested a good way to build empathy is to share one high of the week and one low as a check in.

That stuck with me.

it is incredible to “rejoice with those who rejoice” and allow God’s Holy Spirit to have full reign of our emotions. Thinking of others in their times of sorrow AND celebration are spiritual disciplines of great empathy. Jesus is the ultimate mentor in that journey.

Romans 12: 9-21 is a power packed list of ways in which we see “love in action”:

“Love must be sincere.
Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal
Be joyful in hope
patient in affliction,
faithful in prayer
Share with the Lord’s people who are in need
Practice hospitality
Bless those who persecute you;
bless and do not curse.
Rejoice with those who rejoice;
mourn with those who mourn.
Live in harmony with one another.
Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.
Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil.
Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Do not take revenge,…
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

Whew! Huge list. Impossible on our own strength. Thank you Jesus, you paved the way.