True... but as nice as the list in the song may be, many of the items are temporary, even fleeting in nature. That doesn't make them less adequate in generating happiness -- it simply means that they can sustain you in a happy state for only as long as the experience (or its memory) endures.
Psalm 84 is also about "happiness". Here we are reminded of unshakeable happiness that flows as a result of being in God's presence as God pours out God's love for us and for all of creation. This happiness becomes a way of life when we trust (through faith) the protection and permanence of God's shelter.
As a bird returning to its nest has an instinctive trust that it is place of safety (although natural or human forces may betray that trust) the deepest yearning of our hearts gravitate towards God's love.
The difference between Gesner's consideration of "happiness" and the "happiness" of the people of God, is that God is constantly taking the initiative offering an infinite and abundant stream of everything that will satisfy and complete us in Love.
Don't get me wrong.... there are times that the voices of the children singing "happiness" can bring a tender and sentimental mist to my eyes... and it feels good. But even the most tender sentiment pales in comparison to the overwhelming expansion of the heart that occurs in God's presence.
For deeper reflection: Look at your surroundings and your relationships. What aspects of "happiness" are present. If you were going to sing out "happiness is...." what would be on your list?
Note: Illuminated image of Psalm 84 is from http://www.timbotts.com/
1 comment:
At first glance I might not see "happiness" in the mess and chaos of this busy season. I see laundry that needs folding and put away: I am rushing my kids to their Christmas programs and practices; i have a pile of work to do that is overwhelming but then if I am willing to take a second look I can see more clearly what comprises the bigger picture: the coming Christ child. . . an opportunity to hear God's Word and proclaim the good news. . . beautiful children and family to share my life with. . . the fact that I have clothes to fold when others do not. . .It puts things in perspective. Slowing down to notice the gifts of God is a discipline for me, one that I'm not always attentive to but that is necessary for "peace." So I am happy in the God-sense of happy! Joyful in the little things as I focus on the big thing- Christ!
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