“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” — Psalm 118:24
Joy doesn’t always arrive with grand celebrations or life-changing moments. More often, it is found quietly tucked into the rhythm of our days—the steam rising from a morning cup of coffee, the shared smile with a neighbor, or the familiar sound of birds greeting the morning. These ordinary experiences are not trivial; they are sacred reminders that God’s presence is woven into every corner of our lives. When we slow down to notice, we discover that joy is less about chasing extraordinary events and more about awakening to what is already before us.
Each day offers countless invitations to rejoice. The gift of breath, the warmth of sunlight on our skin, the sound of children’s laughter—all whisper to us that life itself is a reason to be glad. Psalm 118:24 reminds us that today, not yesterday or tomorrow, is the day the Lord has made. That means we don’t need to wait for perfect conditions to celebrate. We can choose joy right here, in the midst of our errands, our work, and even our struggles. Joy is not an escape from reality but a deeper way of engaging with it.
When we begin to see life through this lens, the ordinary becomes extraordinary. Washing dishes becomes a reminder of shared meals and nourishment. A walk down the street becomes a chance to notice God’s handiwork in the changing seasons. Even a long day can end with the blessing of rest and renewal. Discovering joy in the ordinary teaches us to live with gratitude, and in that gratitude, we find a joy that sustains us through all seasons of life.