Mar
30
2010
Trembling Joy: Emotional Paradox in the Christian Life
For I’ve beheld with trembling joy the sight of Calvary’s Scarlet Rose,
For You have captured me. -Steve and Vikki Cook
We have all heard that the word “blessed” means “happy.” True enough. But the kind of happiness that “blessed” conveys is something that transcends the typical American definitions of happiness. It communicates a satisfaction and contentment that is firmly settled in the soul. It isn’t touched by the trivial. It communicates a sense of joy that more often than not is expressed by tears rather than laughter. It isn’t inspired by jokes.
Oftentimes in Scripture this kind of happiness or blessedness is strangely combined with emotions that we intuitively think are contrary or opposite. For instance, in the Beatitudes, Jesus says, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matt. 5:3). Even more striking is, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” (Matt. 5:4)....
For You have captured me. -Steve and Vikki Cook
We have all heard that the word “blessed” means “happy.” True enough. But the kind of happiness that “blessed” conveys is something that transcends the typical American definitions of happiness. It communicates a satisfaction and contentment that is firmly settled in the soul. It isn’t touched by the trivial. It communicates a sense of joy that more often than not is expressed by tears rather than laughter. It isn’t inspired by jokes.
Oftentimes in Scripture this kind of happiness or blessedness is strangely combined with emotions that we intuitively think are contrary or opposite. For instance, in the Beatitudes, Jesus says, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matt. 5:3). Even more striking is, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” (Matt. 5:4)....