Reflection: Joy and worship

In 2023 we welcomed two new grandchildren into our family in the space of a month. I simply can’t not go there. Oh, a mother’s anguish is all too real … as is the couple’s joy at the safe birth of a newborn. Safety breeds joy. 

And just imagine the joy that motivated Jesus to endure the cross so he could perfect us wayward sinners and welcome us, newborn, into the family of God. Safety breeds joy. 

So with us: now is our time of grief. ‘But, said Jesus, when I see you again, you’ll have the kind of joy that no one can take away. You won’t need to ask for anything because all I have will be yours. Meanwhile, ask for anything in my name and you will receive it, and your joy will be complete. I want you to have the full measure of my joy.’ (Author’s paraphrase of John 16:19-24; 17:13). 

Prayer:

Pray to our God, in whom we know safety and joy, and has many names/attributes to inform our prayer, such as: 

• Jehovah: “the self-existent one.” 
• Elohim: from the Hebrew root meaning “strength” or “power.” 
• Adonai: “Lord” or “Master.” 
• Jehovah-Jireh: “the Lord will provide.” 
• Jehovah-Rapha: “the Lord is our Healer.” 
• Jehovah-Nissi: “the Lord is my Banner.” 
• Jehovah-M’Kaddesh: “the Lord who sanctifies.” 
• Jehovah-Shalom: “the Lord our Peace.” 
• Jehovah-Tsidkenu: “The Lord our Righteousness.” 
• Jehovah-Rohi: “the Lord my Shepherd.” 
• Jehovah-Shammah: “the Lord is there.” 
• El Shaddai: “God Almighty.” 
• El Elyon: “Most High God.” 
• El Olam: “Everlasting God.” 

• Emmanuel: “God with us.” 

Settle in his company with this Names of God video, and let it inspire your all-day prayer and worship today.