C.S. Lewis talks about how we miss the extravagance of existence because we are too content playing in the mud. Joy is in such high demand, so sorely sought, that when we find any semblance of it, we set up camp and gorge ourselves.
We settle too quickly. Even in our shame, we feel as though where we are might just be the best we’re going to get. We don’t want to change our diapers. We don’t want to face the unknown, even if we are quite sure it is better.
We run the risk of missing an opportunity to experience greatness because we are frightened of our own suffering and want to settle for the tiny shadow of joy right in front of us.
God has so much in store for us. Riches untold. But it takes a little courage on our part to follow him through what might be cold and embarrassing circumstances to get there. Our brief glimpses of joy are not invalid, just inadequate. They are meant to be encouragement, to empower us forward. We make an idol out of them when we stop pursuing the full joy God has for us.
It seems like an enigma. A paradox. To be thankful for our small glimpses of joy but to keep looking for more. But all joys, big and small, exist to remind us that the Lord is God. And he has more, so much more for us.