By John H. Corbin

Allow me to introduce you to a person who truly rejoices over the people in his life: Jagger is a 4-year-old with curly blond hair; when he walks each step has a bounce of enthusiasm; his smile cheerfully says I appreciate you; the sparkle in his eye is a gleam of excitement that you are present. 

What really sets Jagger apart is the way in which he greets you. Whenever a person enters his surroundings, Jagger stops whatever he is doing, walks up to you with that bounce of enthusiasm, that cheerful smile, with that sparkle in his eye, and then calls you by name and asks, “What’s up?”

Rejoicing with the Lord 

When we greet the Lord each day, it is an opportunity to ask him, “What’s up? Lord what is on your agenda for me today? What person do you wish for me to embrace this day, Lord? Or what do you need me to accomplish for your kingdom today?” Our attitude should be, “Lord, let us achieve together under any circumstance. God, let us get moving for great things are ahead of us today.” 

Warren W. Wiersbe said: “The Christian who walks with the Lord and keeps constant communion with him will see many reasons for rejoicing and thanksgiving all day long.” His words echo God’s Word: “Rejoice always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

Back at You

It’s a good practice to give unconditionally. Often when we give time and energy to others, we receive nothing in return. Unconditional giving involves reaching out to others with a heart filled with God’s love, kindness, and appreciation that they are part of our lives. When we rejoice over our Lord and Savior, a truly awesome event occurs—the Lord rejoices right back at you. “The Lord your God is with you . . .  in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing” (Zephaniah 3:17). 

John Corbin serves as a supply preacher for churches and runs a landscaping firm. He has three sons, Adam, Dakota, and Malachi, and makes his home in Ghent, Kentucky.