Joy Is…

Psalm 30:5

For his anger is but for a moment; his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes with the morning. (Psalm 30:5 NRSV)

As a child growing up in the Baptist church, I heard this scripture quoted all the time. It was a familiar refrain that rang out in times of trouble, hardship, and uncertainty. But it didn’t make sense to me.

Historically, African Americans and Africans in the diaspora have had to endure many painful atrocities and suffered through agonizing adversities, yet we continue to put our hope and trust in a God whom we believe will eventually deliver us. Sunday after Sunday, I’d hear the lyrics of Amazing Grace: “Through many dangers, toils, and snares, I have already come. ‘Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home.” But I couldn’t understand: Why was God mad at us – and just when was this morning supposed to come?

I’m no longer a child, but still I wonder sometimes when will this long night end and the morning begin?

Is God angry with us because there is still a lot to weep about these days. From child hunger to wars raging to rising incarceration rates to senseless violence, we have much to weep about. But I realize now that biblical joy doesn’t ensure a quick fix or an easy answer to these questions.

Often the joy attested to in much of the biblical witness is a joy that sustains and stabilizes you throughout life’s ups and downs. It doesn’t promise to remove life’s challenges, but joy is a steadfast confidence and steady companion along life’s journey that reminds you that God is with you. Joy is grounded in a faith that deeply believes that in time morning will come. In this Advent season, let us rest in the assurance that the Psalmist gives that joy will come in the morning and work to make it happen for all. 

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