What Are You Celebrating?

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“Rejoice with those who rejoice.” Romans 12:15a

Life is made up of all kinds of highlights and milestones, and within each special moment God has given us the gift of celebration! When we take time to reach beyond ourselves and celebrate other’s successes and happy surprises it helps to build up the church body and our shared sense of community. On Sunday mornings, especially, we have great opportunities to celebrate with others. After all, the sanctuary, hallways and classrooms are just brimming with stories to be told, miracles to be shared and people to encourage. Events worthy of celebration are found in both the big and little things of life -
  • An upcoming wedding.
  • A shrinking tumor, successful surgeries and new treatment plans.
  • A dear lady back in church after months of recuperation.
  • A first-time grandma and newborn babies.
  • A plant shut-down cancelled and new careers begun.
  • Awards received and ball games won.

The Bible teaches us the importance of celebration - within the function of the church, our relationship with Christ and with others. The highs and lows of life all bring opportunities to celebrate when we see God's hand at work in our lives. For some, it is natural to see life with the glass half full. For others, the worries of life leave the proverbial glass half empty and celebrations are few.

Whether we acknowledge it or not, God is working in all of our lives each and every day! With each new step, we have the opportunity to celebrate personally and to help others see how God is filling up their cup too - or even making it overflow! We pray and pray for God to heal people, raise up workers in the church, stretch our budgets and fill our churches. But, do we take the time to rejoice in all those answered prayers? Our prayers and those of others? Let’s not “become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9) God wants us to live fruitful lives and to remember to rejoice in how He provides for us! 

So, the next time you hear about what God has done in the life of someone you know make sure you take time to rejoice with them! Rejoice in God's work. Rejoice in God’s presence! Rejoice in God’s goodness! 

Celebration - a time to focus in on and acknowledge God's presence, His sustaining grace and His miraculous work in our lives. He alone is worthy of our praise!

“Sing to the Lord, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise.” Psalm 96:2-4a


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