To Have Joy is to Frolic!

There is a Hebrew word in the Scripture that describes joy, that actually means to frolic, to jump up and down and to clap hands.  In the Old Testament, a prophet by the name of Zephaniah uses that word when he writes:  The Lord takes delight in you and he will rejoice in you w/singing (Zephaniah 3:7).  The Lord delights or takes joy in you in such a way that He actually frolics!  God jumps up and down and claps His hands over you!  

On the surface, that does not seem very dignified, this Holy God frolicking.  But it is because it is a holy and majestic joy. This kind of joy is essential to who God is and how He is described in the Scripture.  This is why we Christians say that the Gospel Story is THE story that can truly deliver good tidings of great and everlasting joy!  

In Luke chapter 2 this is what we are told when there were shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”  13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace and goodwill to men!”  Joy to the world, indeed!

Dr. Dave Lescalleet serves as the Director Chaplaincy for PruittHealth.