Homily For The Presentation of the Lord (February 2, 2025) Total Time: 12m4s

Reflection I shared from the devotional "Jesus Calling"

LEARN TO LAUGH at yourself more freely. Don’t take yourself or your circumstances so seriously. Relax and know that I am God with you. When you desire My will above all else, life becomes much less threatening. Stop trying to monitor My responsibilities—things that are beyond your control. Find freedom by accepting the boundaries of your domain. Laughter lightens your load and lifts your heart into heavenly places. Your laughter rises to heaven and blends with angelic melodies of praise. Just as parents delight in the laughter of their children, so I delight in hearing My children laugh. I rejoice when you trust Me enough to enjoy your life lightheartedly. Do not miss the Joy of My Presence by carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders. Rather, take My yoke upon you and learn from Me. My yoke is comfortable and pleasant; My burden is light and easily borne. 

A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. —PROVERBS 17:22 She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. —PROVERBS 31:25 

“The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” —which means, “God with us.” —MATTHEW 1:23 T

Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest . . . for your souls. For My yoke is wholesome (useful, good—not harsh, hard, sharp, or pressing, but comfortable, gracious, and pleasant), and My burden is light and easy to be borne. —MATTHEW 11:29–30 AMP

Young, Sarah. Jesus Calling, with Scripture References: Enjoying Peace in His Presence (A 365-Day Devotional) (Jesus Calling®) (p. 176). (Function). Kindle Edition.