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I have a bunch of colorful zinnias growing next to my patio. They bring a smile to my face every time I gaze upon them. They make me happy. What happens when they fade and die? Here at the home for needy children in Oaxaca, Mexico, we have a big mango tree that is full of mangoes. Everyone here loves mangoes. They make us happy. What happens when they become wormy (as they have of late), or we eat the last good one? The children here have wonderful house parents who they love and become attached to. What happens when the house parents move on?

In a world filled with fleeting pleasures and momentary happiness, we are often left longing for something more substantial, something that can fill the void within our souls. True happiness cannot be found in flowers, mangoes or even in the love of house parents. However, the psalmist reminds us of a profound truth that has the power to transform our lives – our ultimate source of joy lies in the Lord.

Psalm 32:11 beckons us to “rejoice in the Lord and be glad.” It is an invitation to experience a deep and abiding joy that surpasses all circumstances. This joy is not dependent on our external situation but is rooted in a relationship with the One who created us. It is a joy that springs forth from the depths of our being, from a heart that has been transformed by God’s love and grace.

As believers, we have a unique reason to rejoice. We have been justified by faith in Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. Our sins have been forgiven, and we have been reconciled to God. We are called the righteous, not because of our own righteousness, but because of the righteousness of Christ imputed to us.

This joy is not merely an emotion; it is a choice we make every day. We choose to rejoice in the Lord despite the challenges and trials we face. It is a deliberate decision to focus our hearts and minds on the goodness, faithfulness, and sovereignty of God rather than being consumed by the troubles of this world.

When we rejoice in the Lord, our perspective shifts. We begin to see life’s difficulties through the lens of God’s grace and providence. We find comfort in His presence and in the promises of his Word.

All of us at the home for needy children, staff, volunteers and the kids, can truly rejoice and be glad following our Savior who loves us and wants us to be happy, eternally.