JOY & DELIGHT 

One of my favourite verses in the bible that has been important to me since I was quite young, is Zephaniah 3:17. The final sentence of this verse depicts a God who rejoices over us with singing. I love that image - a creator God who is so delighted with his children that He sings with joy! 

This image starkly contrasts some commonly held images of God: God with a rule book, God with a benchmark making sure we are fulfilling criteria, or perhaps God as a distant figure not really interested in our lives. 

My experience of God - and one I hope our students feel - is that of a delighted Father and friend who celebrates our ‘wins’ with us, shares our struggles, walks alongside in the challenges and ultimately, who desires a deep relationship with us.

Joy, humour (and perhaps, a bit of singing!) are key relational qualities that connect us as humans to each other. They can also connect us to God. I know when I watched the musical earlier in the year, or when I’ve seen our school bands or choirs perform, I’ve felt a deep sense of joy, connection and celebration as I’ve seen our students use their God-given talents and skills to bring glory to God. 

It might not be music for you - perhaps art, nature, community groups, adventure - however you experience joy the most, remember God is the wellspring of this, and His deepest joy is in His creation - you!