Sunday, for more than one reason and no reason at all, I was having a sad day. I woke up feeling blue and distant from my family. I went to Sunday school, still feeling as if I had no joy. I decided to skip out on church and thought that sitting in the sun with my family for my son’s last football game of the season would bring me to cheer. Seeing him run the ball brought me momentary happiness, but I still could not shake the funk I was in.

I allowed my son to have a few friends over. I sat under the shade of the trees, listened to the birds’ sing, and read a book. I was interrupted by the arrival of a friend who I hadn’t spent time with in a while. We laughed, shared hugs and emotional needs. But still, I was blue. Soon after, I had to be in Bunkie to fulfill an obligation. A part of me wanted to back out, but due to circumstances in the life of others, I couldn’t. I’m glad I didn’t!

I was able to spend 2 hours with 10 of the most loving girls. One walked in with a bouquet and was beyond excited to share with the other girls, but she was even more excited that I was the coach for the day, and she could make me a personal bouquet. Her thoughtfulness warmed my heart beyond measure. Some of our time had to be spent outdoors. As we walked out to begin our run, another of the girls found a leaf on the ground that resembled a heart. She quickly picked it up and handed it to me with great enthusiasm, and said, “I love you, Mama Chelle.” At that moment, I was forced not only to realize all of my blessings but to repent.

See, because I was so focused on how I felt, I failed to see the many moments of gratitude I should have thanked God. I was distracted by my emotions, allowing my emotions to be a stealer of joy. I couldn’t fully appreciate all that God had done throughout the day until I shifted my focus off of myself and unto others and until I appreciated the simplest acts shown with the greatest sincerity and love. I was made to realize what love in action looks like and does in someone’s life.

What has your focus? What is keeping you from experiencing the joy of God today? Do you show your love in action?

Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8