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Key Bible Verse: Light shines on the godly, and joy on those who do right (Psalm 97:11). Bonus Reading: Philippians 4:8; Psalm 30:4–5, 11–12

Veteran photographer Jim Brandenburg was used to shooting rolls and rolls of film. But he decided to seek renewal by returning to basics. For a period of 90 days he resolved to take only one photograph a day. The results were published in National Geographic and in a book entitled Chased by the Light.

Jim told how he took one striking photo: "Tired, hungry, and wet, I was near tears. But perhaps because I'd reached my physical limits, I became open to the possibility revealed by a single red maple leaf floating on a dark-water pond. My spirits rose the instant I saw it, and although the day was very late and what little light there had been was fleeing rapidly, I studied the scene from every angle. Finally, unsure of my choice, I made the shot anyway."

Often when joy seems to fade, recalling Jim's idea, I turn my mental camera upon the day I'm living and seek to locate in it the one moment that holds the most joy. No matter how dull or stressful my day may seem, a point of light always gleams. The more I focus on it, the larger and brighter it becomes.

Today, a shining mystery is just for you. Open your shutter quickly and take it in.

—Mike Mason in Champagn for the Soul

My Response: My moment of joy in the last 24 hours was …

Thought to Apply: There is not one blade of grass, there is no color in this world that is not intended to make us rejoice. —John Calvin (French reformer & theologian)

Adapted from Champagn for the Soul (WaterBrook, 2003) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Lord, help me pursue passing pleasures less and relish the enduring joy of Your presence more.

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