March 26, 2025

Discovering Joy’s Presence
excerpt from the 2025 Living Compass Lenten Devotional (Pick one up in the Narthex!)

Although you have not seen him, you love him; and even
though you do not see him now, you believe in him and
rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy.
—1 Peter 1:8

In our search for joy, we sometimes overlook its subtle presence in our daily lives. The Examen of Joy is a spiritual practice that can help us notice and celebrate these experiences, training our hearts to attune to joy’s profound gifts.

Find a comfortable, quiet place where you won’t be disturbed. Begin by taking a few settling breaths and becoming aware of God’s loving presence. Then, gently review your day, asking yourself: When did I feel most alive with joy? It might have been during an everyday occurrence—a child’s laugh, a task completed, a kind exchange, a glimpse of beauty.

Next, consider: When did joy feel distant or difficult? Rather than judging, simply hold whatever comes up with compassion. Notice what each might teach you about what nurtures or hinders joy in your life.

Sometimes the absence of joy awakens us to its soft stirring in ways we might otherwise miss.

Now look more closely at one joyful experience. What made it joyful? Was it connection with another person? A sense of accomplishment? The beauty of nature? A quiet time of prayer? Notice how it lives in your body, mind, and spirit. Pay attention to the particular tone of this joy—each instance has its own unique qualities.

Close by giving thanks for these insights about joy, while releasing any expectations or judgments into God’s care. Like the gradual process we explored on Monday, this practice helps us recognize and receive joy in the many ways it can show up in our daily lives.

Making it Personal: When could you take time and pause for this practice of looking back on your day for signs of joy? What recent encounter with joy might you want to explore more deeply? How might paying regular attention to joy’s presence change how you move through your days?