Are you good at celebrating? I admit, I am not. I don’t naturally take time to enjoy achievements. I acknowledge this is not a positive trait. Such people can become grumpy martyrs and no fun to be with. A few years ago, to help change my attitude and behaviour I journaled: 

“Because God seeks our enjoyment, not just our obedience, I do well when I often celebrate with others the abundant life Jesus brings. When I enjoy life, I am full of gratitude, humour, fun and laughter. I am at my best.” 

I know I have ‘problems’ with enjoying life, do you? Do you feel the Christian takeaway message is of suffering, perseverance, tenacity, courage, and patience? Do you wonder what place celebration and joy have when following Jesus is about denying yourself and taking up your cross? (Matt 16:24-26)? I certainly have wondered this. I have wondered how to enjoy life when there is so much sorrow and service to be done. 

It is sobering that Judas Iscariot was the miser among the 12 disciples. As a pretence to serve the poor, he protested at the extravagance of Mary anointing Jesus with expensive ointment (John 12:4). In contrast, Jesus warmly received her generous celebration. Even while knowing he would go on to die on a cross, Jesus knew how to enjoy life and be thankful in a way Judas did not. 

Jesus has come to give life to his followers, in the full (John 10:10). Let us not be so busy working or serving, we miss the many times we can enjoy and give thanks for the abundant life Jesus offers. 

Enjoy, 

Jason 

Photo by Ian Schneider on Unsplash