Hello Lovely Church Family,
Thank you again for the way you celebrated me this past Sunday. That was really sweet, and I was surprised. I felt your love, and my heart is still smiling from it.
Your celebration and joy made me reflect on a conversation I had this week with some people who are a part of the Indigenous Ministers Association in the Evangelical Covenant Church. We talked about how often we don’t celebrate our own wins. Big or small, we move so quickly to the next thing that we forget to take the time to acknowledge how far the Lord has brought us. We are usually pretty good at cheering other people on, but we are not the best at celebrating ourselves.
So, here’s your encouragement: celebrate you this week. Intentionally, pick something that you can celebrate. Something small, big, or meaningful. Give yourself a little joy for whatever you choose.
If you need ideas, here are some…
You may have stayed consistent with something important to you.
You may have practiced joy and gave up being grumpy all week.
You may have chosen faith over fear this time.
You may have made time for exercise or rest where this is not your norm.
You may have tried something new or made it through something challenging.
You may have helped a friend.
It could be something else, but you get the idea. Whatever it is, it counts, so celebrate.
Do something to honor your effort. Pick up fresh flowers for yourself or take a walk and leave your phone behind. Light a candle and write down what you’re proud of. Turn on your favorite music and dance or sing in the shower. Eat ice cream or enjoy your favorite meal. Just celebrate.
We were created for more than doing. We were all created out of God’s joy. Our souls crave joy, and celebration is a thank you for the joy that God gives.
With peace and joy, may you celebrate,
Pastor Tamara
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