What Dampens Your Spirit?

On our way rejoicing,
people called in love.
Serving one who touches
Earth from heaven above.

There are many ways to serve in the life of our church and one of those is sharing your gifts on ministry teams, committees and with many other groups as well.  Now that we are transitioning toward more in-person events and worship, many of these teams, committees and groups are considering having meetings at the church along with Zoom options.

I was at retreat once where the question was asked, “What dampens your spirit?”  I have never forgotten the answer that welled up in me, “For me it its long meetings that don’t accomplish much.”  Since then, I have often joked that if it weren’t for all the meetings, I would love the ministry.  Having to be part of a plethora of meetings is one of the hazards of being a clergy person.  Interestingly, one of the other retreat participants said, “Being around people who don’t have any joy is what dampens my spirit.”  And I thought…”Wow, meetings which are frustrating, boring and tiring and that often dampen my spirit are ones that don’t have any joy.”

Regardless of life's difficulties, struggles, and tragedies (of which there are many) we are encouraged to rejoice in the goodness and joys of life (of which there are also many).  Sharing the joy of our faith and the ultimate goodness and love of God which energize and sustains the universe is one of our great responsibilities as Christians.

Here is how the Apostle Paul put it,

“Rejoice in the Lord always;
again, I say rejoice.”

With this being election time, it is interesting that most politicians of every party lift up the “American dream” of being better off in the coming few years.  Happiness and better yet, fulfillment, are not tied to greater material prosperity, though that is part of the myth.  As people of faith we are called not to look for joy simply in better circumstances, but in the fullness of life which God offers us.  Being connected to Christ and his body (the church) offers shared joys, meaningful relationships, and helpful service.

Whatever ways we meet together going forward, I hope we will celebrate our common life with shared joy as we serve others and God, such that our spirits are lifted (not dampened).  

One of our greatest joys can be known in worship!  This coming Sunday we will focus on the fourth commandment: “Honor the Sabbath and keep it holy.”  When we do that, we truly participate in the joy of God. 

Whether online or in-person, I look forward to your participation in church!

With Joy,

Rev. Dr. David D. Young
Senior Minister

This piece originally appeared in The Wave on October 12, 2022