10-22-2022 11:32pm

Strong spirits: C'mon! Celebrate!

Photo: RIA Novosti

Who doesn't like a good party? You know, lots of friends, meeting new people, music, dancing, good food. What's not to love?

When it comes to our spiritual life, though, we often take a different tack. Some of us can't see the connection between a good party and our need to grow strong spirits. In fact, they may seem like opposites. They are not!

Throughout scripture, we are called to celebration. And not just a timid little tea party either! Think of how David danced before the Lord when bringing the arc back to Jerusalem. Think of the dedication of the temple in Jerusalem. Think of the return of the prodigal son. There are times when not celebrating wholeheartedly would be just wrong!

"Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say, rejoice!" the apostle Paul (Philippians 4:4)

"But we had to celebrate and be glad because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found." Jesus (Luke 15:32)

How about you? Do you know how to celebrate spiritually? Do you ever give yourself to rejoicing? C'mon! Let your hair down! Clap your hands! Cut loose! REJOICE!!

Gary Schwerin serves as pastor at Caledonia Congregational Church. He is also the Spiritual Development Minister for the YMCA of the Rock River Valley and Executive Director of Bridge Ministries of Rockford. Prior to launching Bridge Ministries, Gary spent many years in leadership with Young Life. His columns appear here every Sunday - to see them all, subscribe to our daily email.