God is a God of celebration. Our biblical translations can be kind of tame, but some words that describe his joy imply dancing, spinning, singing, and more. Jesus said heaven rejoices when a sinner comes back to the Father and to his or her true self. Scripture emphasizes the joy of the Lord, which he offers to us as our source of strength (Nehemiah 8:10). And, as you may recall, this whole human story ends with a wedding banquet, with all its feasting and dancing. God is planning on a party.
If we want to be like him, we’re going to have to learn how to celebrate. For some of us, that comes easily. For others among us, we’ll need to loosen up a little. Yes, God’s character has weight and dignity, but he’s also the author of unbridled joy. The Jesus movies that portray a frozen-faced, vacant-eyed Savior have missed it. Though the stakes in this world are enormous, the end is euphoria for those who love and believe in him. He invites our joy.
Don’t live frivolously, but neither make the mistake of living so sober-mindedly that you forget the joy of the kingdom. According to his own Word, God delights, rejoices, and smiles. He celebrates with his people. If your heart beats with his, you will too.
