By Lisa Wilmore
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It fills my heart with gratitude to know that our Everlasting, Eternal and Endless Savior loves and sustains us. Thanks be to God!
I want to share a delightful experience that occurred with my seven-year-old nephew, who always seems to find joy in spending time with me. While many kids his age are busy playing with friends or exploring with siblings, he chooses to sit beside me, eagerly chatting and asking questions about everything under the sun. Just recently, at a football game, he made his way over to the sidelines, settling down next to me during the excitement of the game. I couldn’t help but wonder why he preferred my company over joining the other kids or talking to his cousins. Yet, there he was, drawn to his “Aunt Lisa.” I cherish these moments with him, as his curiosity and enthusiasm create a special bond between us. Even with a vast number of questions, our time together is a true blessing that I deeply appreciate. In this child’s presence, there is a sense of happiness and welcoming that we all need at some point of our lives.
Our title for this message, “In the presence of the Lord is the fulness of Joy” (Psalm 16:11b), resonated in my heart and mind as I read David’s words in Psalm 16. What joy we have when we are in the presence of the Lord-whether it is “here or after”. Have you ever been in the presence of someone that you truly love conversing with while sharing your ideas and even listening to their thoughts and opinions about a matter? Well, David penned His heartfelt joy in being in the presence of God.
David proclaimed his trust in God in this psalm, affirming that “the Lord is the portion of His inheritance” (Psalm 16:5) and expressing gratitude for the counsel he receives (Psalm 16:7). He understood that without God, he was lost—just as we all are. Yet, as believers who accept Jesus Christ, we experience a profound joy that dwells within us. Regardless of our circumstances, we can find comfort in the truth that “in the presence of the Lord, there is a fullness of joy.” Our joy originates from Jesus, who embodies the true essence of joy.
Reflecting on my seven-year-old nephew’s delight in spending time with me paints a beautiful picture of being in the presence of our Lord. Each morning, as we bow in prayer or worship Him for His loving-kindness and mercy, we should feel that same fullness of joy in our hearts. We must thank God for His presence. It is the fullness of joy!
