Saint Francis and Joy
Attending a university run by Franciscans really taught me a lot about Franciscan spirituality and the life and charisms of Saint Francis. One of the unique aspects of Franciscan Spirituality that has always stuck out to me is the concept of True and Perfect Joy.
Saint Francis explained to Brother Leo that joy comes not from our external circumstances but rather from accepting all that happens with peace and love in our hearts, all the while thinking of Jesus’ sacrifice and His infinite love for us (paraphrased).
The ability to be joyful is a gift. It's the Love of God poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit. When we live our lives in love with God and are open to that outpouring of the fruits of the Spirit, we will be given the grace and ability to be joyful, no matter our circumstances.
This is why joy is not tied to our moods. You can be devastated, depressed, grieving, or in pain and still choose joy. It's easier to be joyful when we're happy, of course, but the grace of God and the outpouring of the Spirit mean that we can always be joyful.
Little kids are such a sweet example of this. Even when they get hurt or are having a bad day, just as quickly, they seem to get up and can be playing, laughing, and having fun in an instant. They don't carry the weight or memory of worry, pain, or suffering because they know they are cared for and loved.
Recently, I've realized that my least joyful moments occur when I haven't prioritized spending time with God during my day- perhaps I missed reading the daily scriptures before work or only briefly wrote in my prayer journal before bed instead of intentionally setting aside a more extended period to be with Jesus. I've found that the days when I realign my focus and prioritize Him are the days that it's almost easier to be joyful, even when it's externally tough.
So today, I'd like to invite you to practice joy with this simple exercise and become that little child once again:
Jesus, our Joy
Start by closing your eyes and taking a deep breath. Be still, and invite the Holy Spirit to speak to you through your thoughts.
Pray, "Come Holy Spirit."
I want you to imagine yourself as a little child. Maybe you’re at a playground. Maybe you’re running around. Maybe you’re in a field, on a beach, or somewhere else similar.
Think about what’s around you. How does the grass or sand feel on your feet? Are there people around? What does it smell like? Sound like?
Now imagine you fall. Your leg is hurting, and you're feeling sad. You don’t know what to do.
As tears start to flow down your cheeks, you look up, and there, in front of you, is Jesus.
Notice how He looks at you. See His arms stretched out, coming towards you to carry you, pick you up, and hold you.
Now, feel Him pick you up, his arms, big and strong. He smiles at you and dries your tears.
What does He say to you? What do you say to Him?
How do you feel? Are you scared anymore? Even though your leg might still hurt from when you fell, feel the comfort and peace that His Love brings.
Now, think of yourself now, in whatever stage of life you're in. What are you struggling with? Why are you sad, scared, or in pain? You're still that little child in need of love and comfort.
Just rest in His arms; be still. When we are with Jesus, we are safe and can regain that childlike joy that only He can give. We might still feel the pain, but we are always safe- held, loved, and protested in His arms.
Living Joy
Just as Saint Francis told Brother Leo, joy comes from being close to Jesus and remaining always in His presence. When we're with Him- living our faith by receiving the Sacraments and loving Him and those around us- we are like the little child in His arms. We're held, loved, and cherished- and that knowledge can bring us joy, even amidst our pain, grief, and suffering.
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