joy

is it in the sparkle of a diamond ring?
that shimmers through vow-making,
that's appraised through vow-keeping?

joy

is it in the smell of fresh paint?
that settles upon stair creaks discovered,
that crackles along kitchen counters gravy-splattered?

joy

is it in the cry of worship choruses?
that rise and fall with sunday congregations,
that ring campfires, guitars, and fireflies flickering?

joy

tonight, there are those who bleed
and burn
in the dark
and in prison
alone
or in the presence of their enemies

who know a bit about it. joy.

tonight, there are those bruised
and used
on the streets
or in bedrooms
alone
or huddling together for warmth

who have a little of it. joy.

and tonight, there is a God
who sees
and knows
and weighs justly
and counts riches oh so differently
than i ever have

and who wants to give me joy

in abiding (John 15:1-11)
and in hoping (Proverbs 10:28, Romans 15:13)
...in His judgment (I Chronicles 16:33, Proverbs 21:15)
...in His keeping (Jude 1)
...in His return (John 16:22).

and as i praise Him for being so great
in spite of,
above,
beyond
anything,
everything

He gives me joy.