Joy in the pursuit of contentment 

Joy - that internal, deep sense of well-being from which we draw empathy, compassion and contentment.

Joy is almost lost to our society. It isn't a good fit with our pop culture. We have microwave ovens and instant oatmeal, "One Minute Managers" and "A Worship Moment Online." 

If you want laughter there is the 24 hour Comedy channel. You can even get your 'news' on 'Comedy Central.'

Joy has been replaced with the quick endorphin release of laughter and happiness. Our drive to accomplishment through duty has been replaced by the adrenalin highs of excitement. Board games are being replaced by the vicarious living found in video games.

There is very little that is 'deep' in our society and certainly very few who are experiencing a deep sense of well-being. 

Lingering conversations around the dinner table are pretty much a thing of the past, with many homes having fewer than one sit-down meal at a dining table per week.

It is little wonder that Baby-boomers are headlong into pursuits with the hopes of finding joy and contentment...the problem is the direction and method of their pursuits.

Joy isn't developed through external stimulations - happiness generally is. Contentment isn't derived through wealth or status - it is learned. As the Apostle Paul, we can 'learn in whatever situation we are in, therein to be content.' 

We can have that internal, deep sense of well-being that accompanies a strong sense of self. We can have that strong identity as we develop our walk in faith and hope and purpose. We can then draw from that sense of well-being - reservoirs of empathy, compassion, and yes, contentment.

And there will be joy...a sense that all is well, God is on His throne.