In times of difficulty, we honor God’s presence, even when joy feels distant. Together, we experience joy not as an escape, but as a deep, sustaining force. It speaks through our struggles, reminding us of resilience. Our ancestors found joy even in unimaginable suffering, drawing strength from it to survive and resist. Their joy wasn’t loud or obvious, but it was real and present. Today, we draw on that same joy, trusting that even in hardship, God’s presence is with us, guiding us forward. We embrace this joy, not to ignore pain, but to endure it with hope. In God’s joyful presence, we find strength to face whatever comes, knowing we are never alone.
May we walk through difficult times
with the quiet strength of God's joyful presence,
knowing we are never alone.
(inspired by Barbara A. Holmes, Joy Unspeakable)