Twenty-six years ago Bobby McFerrin wrote and performed a catchy song called Don’t Worry, Be Happy. Essentially, Bobby says no matter what your circumstances, it is best not to worry.

Good advice, but easier said than done!

 

Most of us have a list of things that cause us to worry. I worry about the economy and whether my kids will have the same opportunities I had. I hope my three daughters will have loving, God-fearing husbands. (My two married daughters do!) And I sometimes worry about my mother who lives a couple hundred miles away.

 

Today’s reading is Luke 12:22-34. A large crowd gathered to hear Jesus speak. In this parable, he tells the people to not worry. Yes, Jesus acknowledges they have needs, but he reassures them that, as God’s children, God will ensure they have what they need. Their (and our) priorities should be on spiritual things.

 

God will see to it that our physical needs are met on Earth. But there is more to it. In Acts 14:17 St. Paul tells us that God, “fills our hearts with joy.”

 

Joy and happiness are a bit different. Webster describes happiness as enjoying something, or having pleasure. Happiness, therefore, is associated with our circumstances in this world. Joy, on the other hand, is contentment, regardless of circumstances, that gives us inner peace.

 

Only God can give us joy. He did this by sending his Son to die on the cross to take away our sins. What joy it is to know that my eternal life has been taken care of! There is nothing I need to do!

 

With a heart filled with joy, there is not a lot of room left for worry (although there will always be some room for it because I still am stained with sin).

 

No wonder Jesus tells us to set our hearts on spiritual things! That will reduce our worries.

 

Now, back to Bobby.

 

There is nothing wrong with being happy. Bobby’s tune is pleasant and worth remembering. But, we might want to alter it just a bit.

 

Don’t Worry, Be Joyful!