go out in joy...

Less than a week away... crazy!

Today, I'm going to talk about something somewhat unrelated to Boston (but I will circle back in the end).

Every year, for the last six, I have chosen a "one little word", inspired by Ali Edwards. This is the third year I have also participated in her online class of the same name.

The purpose of choosing a word like this is to evaluate where you are, where you want your year to go and help stay grounded in that pursuit. I usually choose my word toward the end of the prior year and will spend the early part of the year studying how that word plays out in the Bible, and ultimately choose a "verse of the year" to accompany my word.

For perspective, my previous words were focus, progress, grace, strong, brave and...

this year, it is JOY.

It took me a long time to choose my scripture this year, because ya know what? JOY is in the Bible a lot. I mean, really, a lot.

Ultimately, I landed here:

For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace;
The mountains and hills before you shall break forth in singing
and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.
Isaiah 55:12 ESV

For me, "joy" and "peace" are closely related and I love that this verse includes both of them. MY joy in going and HIS peace in me when I go.

It's been a theme this year...different sermons, bible studies, etc. pointing to the notion of going. And my church very much has a sending heart.

July's assignment in my One Little Word class was to determine a manifesto, give yourself a pep talk, figure out the words you need to hear right now. This was perfect timing as we approach this trip.

Here is what I put together for my album:

I used this project as a reminder that I was chosen by Christ, I was made for this and that I should live fearless in Him.

You are my servant, I have chosen you and not cast you off; Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you. I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous hand.  Isaiah 41:9-10

So, all of this to say...as I approach the trip, which I feel so ill-equipped to do...I will go out in joy and He will lead me in peace. And if I'm lucky....they'll be singing and clapping, too!

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Prayer Prompt:
Pray that I will go out in joy and be led forth in peace.