Now Serving... Joy

They’re three of the most feared letters in the country: D.M.V.

What is it about this place? It seems most people would rather have a root canal than endure a trip to the DMV. Just the thought conjures up unpleasant images of endless lines… confusing forms… compassionless attendants.

The DMV seems almost designed to drain joy. And while we might laugh about how miserable it is, it’s a good reminder that joy can be fragile, even in our spiritual lives.

If we’re honest, sometimes reading the Bible or showing up to church can start to feel routine, even burdensome. We know spending time with God is a privilege, but we don’t always feel it. Life gets busy. Our hearts get distracted. The joy fades.

But Scripture reminds us that true joy isn’t found in circumstances. It’s found in Christ. Psalm 16:11 says, “You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.”

Joy isn’t something we chase, it's something we receive when we intentionally draw near to God. His presence revives us and changes our perspective. Even in the DMV of life, joy is still possible when we stay close to Him.

Does spending time with God feel like an obligation, or a joyful invitation?

- Ron Reid