It is funny how themes tend to reoccur during my prayer life. One of the most recent ones is the idea of radiating with joy.
“Look to God that you may be radiant with joy!” Ps. 34:6
With this image, I continue to think of the sunflowers growing in my backyard. Sunflowers seek out the sun with a determination that is powerful to witness. Once they bloom, their blooms lock facing east. There is this one multi-blossomed sun-flower that is growing right next to the corner of our house. In this position, it does not get full-sun all day. The sun-flower’s response- to grow at at 45 degree angle so that it may be fully exposed to the sun. This drives me a bit crazy because it makes the sunflower garden look messy. I have staked and re-stake this guy to stand upright, but he refuses to remain blocked from the light. He continues to desperately seek out the sun and grow side-ways.
I am struck by both this scripture and this image. It challenges me to ask myself- am I radiating joy? It challenges me really look at the root of my joy. Is it God or is it something else that is brief and not long-lasting?
My prayer: God, help me be locked on your light and to fully turn my face to God so as to radiate joy!
Am I looking to God to be radiant with joy?
Am I seeking the “light” with the determination of the sunflower?
Mine do the same thing…now I know why!