Joy is the theme...or is it?

I was deeply challenged by (my husband) Richard Shaw's message at www.solentcc.org yesterday.

One's demeanour is contagious, like it or not! An oft-used saying in our circles is, 'remember measles and mumps thing...it's what you've got, not what you say you have, that others catch'! So often we try to 'put on a brave face' when we're not fully 'feeling' the enthusiasm expected or needed for the situation (especially if we hold a position of leadership, in any setting). The result is, well, not good! Those around us may even be confused by their own lack of engaging, but ultimately, they are simply following us - what we truly are, even if we're saying something else. Tough, right?

Experience has taught me, however, that most emotions become 'reality' with the use of a little 'primer'. Memories of our old water-pump on the farm in Zambia graphically illustrate this principle. In order to create some suction to cause the water to flow, we first had to pour some water into the pump to create a vacuum! There is a saying our old church leader in SA quoted often, 'you've gotta-act-enthusiastic-and-you'll-be-enthusiastic!' He was one of the most courageous of leaders with many faith-exploits to his name - a contagious Christian!

In my experience, joy comes with thankfulness. So, to follow the direction of the writer of Colossians 3:16-17, 'Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly...as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name o the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.'

My challenge is to filter what I allow into my heart and mind. Making the tree good produces good fruit!