What kind of happiness?

She was much too happy. The cashier at a local convenience store greeted everyone very cheerfully as she performed her duties. ‘Are you always this happy? ’ I asked approaching the cash register. ‘Of course,’ she replied, ‘I only have so many days to live and I don’t want to waste any of them on unhappiness.’

Society encourages us to pursue happiness. Many commercials on television present a ‘slant’ on what will bring us happiness - from a luxury car to a total personal makeover. The product or process usually has to do with self-gratification, self-esteem, and proper self-reliance.

In fact, the US Declaration of Independence declares that we have the right to the pursuit of happiness. But happiness tied to this material world has its limits. Rather, a blessed happiness (or joy deep within) is promised as a by-product to those who develop the traits described in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12):

• Humility is demonstrated by our poverty of spirit. Our complete inadequacy before a righteous God. Our mourning over our sinfulness, and meekness with increased awareness of sin. Thank goodness that God’s mercy and grace through Jesus have resolved this inadequacy.
• Hunger and thirst for righteousness that is demonstrated in our passion to be like Jesus in goodness and righteousness.
• Heart attitudes of mercy, purity, peacemaking, and contentment in persecution.

This joy, which God offers to us, resulting from these character traits, is long-lasting and complete. The world’s happiness is often short and its satisfaction shallow. Join me this week in pursuing heavenly joy!

Prayer: Give me a cheerful heart, O Lord. Let me always rejoice in Your goodness. Amen