Tears of Joy

Crying is an expression of emotion that is least understood by us. We most often associate it with sorrow, but fail to see that it is also the highest expression of joy. Picture a mother who loses her only child in a large crowd and later finds him after her desperate search. The moment she finds her child, she embraces him with tears running down her eyes.

And as I sat back and pondered upon this wonderful expression that God has blessed us with, I was pushed into a deeper level of understanding. Two recent incidents show-cased the impact of this emotional expression.

In one situation, I was really pushed to my wits end with no flicker of hope. And as I pictured its impact, tears welled up and I went down on my knees to say nothing, but to just thank my Lord for the many great days He was pleased to give me.

The following morning, I received a verse from a friend of mine. This is the verse God has been speaking to me with for quite some time now. (Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future). And as I was reading the verse, tears rolled down my eyes expressing an uncontrollable satisfaction that God hasn't missed me out and is faithful to what He has promised.

In another situation, I had a sudden desire to sing worship songs in a group. Nothing that happened that whole day went according to my plan and I even forgot that I thought about something. And as the day was drawing to a close, I walked into the office cafeteria at about 7:30p and one of my good friend's at work mentioned that Don Moen is performing near our office location (at St. Theresa's Church Nungambakkam) - - Don Moen recently came down for a concert last Sunday and I missed it.

My friend and I attended the concert after work - - just when Don began to sing - - and it was a wonderful hour of praise and worship. And just in the middle of when Lenny Leblanc was singing 'Above All', I found myself overwhelmed. I thought how much God loves me that He even fulfills a desire that I myself have forgotten.

These incidents led me through the crests and troughs of emotions, both of which stretched me. But my cry had a meaning only when I cried in His presence when I worshipped My Lord. What a wonderful thing God has given man - - a spirit of worship and tears of joy.