Joy

True joy, real lasting joy
Is God’s pure gift to those who place
Their trust in Him, the Author of
Eternal life and peace.

Such joy is found in Christ
Who ate and drank freely with all
Despite their status, wealth or rank
For in Him all are one.

His joy, made manifest
In all created things, is ours
To have and hold, and emulate
Within our daily lives.

Not one thing must we call
Unclean or common, for in Christ
And through Him, was creation made
To glorify His name.

We exercise this joy
And inward peace within our souls
To bind up broken hearts and bring
True joy into their lives.

Real joy has inner strength
To help the human heart withstand
Those times when disappointment comes
It is His will, be strong.

In all times, good or bad
In sickness and in suffering
Let inward peace and confidence
In faith and trust be yours.

True joy enables us
To endure sufferings for His sake
When times are dark or difficult
Through weakness comes His strength.