In her introduction to the book, Emily establishes her underlying philosophy as one of pursuing the enduring joy that God wants for us. I think that is what initially drew me to her writing because that is the attitude I hope to portray and enjoy in my everyday life.
Of course, Emily acknowledges how easy it is to get drawn into the negativity that surrounds us in the world. In her words: “…but the life God has planned for each of us is filled with astounding joy and love – and the challenge comes in choosing to see that joy and love. Choosing the sky is about deciding to look up and out – from ourselves and our own troubles – to see Christ in the everyday and Christ alive in the person before us. Choosing the sky is all about recognizing the beauty, love, and joy overflowing from the heart of God in this world and in our lives. It is about choosing compassion over selfishness, hope over fear, a cheerful heart over a morose heart, and choosing to hold fast to faith in every season of life.”
Can you imagine how great life could be if we all learn to look at life that way? Now I get it, this is certainly easier said than done. We can all walk out the door each morning with that intention and then lose track when we get slapped in the face with the difficult realities of the world.
So how can we become a community of support for one another to help us remember the “beauty, love, and joy overflowing from the heart of God” even when life on earth gets difficult? What ideas do you have to help us move toward that enduring joy that God wants for us? I’d love to see your thoughts in the comment section below…