I have performed more than 220 weddings through my 29 years of ministry. I had the privilege of performing the service for all four of our children. The most recent was likely one of the most unique I have ever officiated. Our son Mitch has been told repeatedly that he will not likely survive treatment for his leukemia. Six years ago he developed a friendship with a wonderful young lady- Chelsea. About a year ago their relationship deepened. They became engaged and stretched the wedding date out far enough (May 23, 2009) to get past this pesky cancer and be cleared from the more restricting dietary and health concerns. However, it hasn’t worked out smoothly at all. One harsh turn after another has brought Mitch to the brink of the most difficult situation to face- eternity at 27 years old.
After some counsel and clear understanding of the consequences of their actions, the two decided to get married early (only three days notice) before a handful of folks who desperately wanted to be present. That was more than one week ago. Yesterday, he said, "There is a weight associated with death and darkness. There is a counterweight associated with joy, blessing and abundant life. One will always outweigh the other. The latter is much greater for me now. I am experiencing joy at a deep level that drives the burden and fear of an unwelcomed end of life near."
Joy! It does have weight to it. That’s why it is sometimes referred to as "uncontainable" or "inexpressible". It brings a lightness (counterweight) to the heaviest burden. It really only comes from God and through a relationship with Jesus Christ. We are not only surprised by joy, but bouyed by it. It comes from Christ and drives us back to Him. Praise God for his delights.