February 19, 2010 - Sirach 30:21,22

"Do not give yourself over to sorrow,
and do not distress yourself deliberately.
A joyful heart is life itself,
and rejoicing lenghtens one's life span."

"Don't worry...be happy" is what this passage seems to say. I think a joyful heart is a gift from God. I know many people who just ain't happy no matter what good thing is going on in their lives, and I know others who manage to maintain a positive attitude even in the worst of times. What good is a downcast demeanor? Frowning just makes you frown more when smiling creates a bond even with strangers.

When was the last time you said "hello" to a total stranger? Now, I'm not talking about being weird so they wonder what you're up to. Just a brief hi and a smile. A wave. Part of the problem with life today is that we are so disconnected with each other. We each stay in our own little bubbles, and God forbid we make eye contact with the bum on the street corner!

The whole political nonsense that took the books of the Apocrypha out of Protestant Bibles really cheated millions of people. There is so much wisdom and joy in these books.

Here is a prime example from the book of Sirach. Sirach is also known as Ecclesiasticus. The book was written in Hebrew between 200 and 175 B.C. Though not part of the Hebrew or Protestant Bible, the Catholic church considers it part of the canon and has used it extensively in the liturgy. It's title of "Ecclesiasticus" refers to its use as the "Church Book."

Sirach is much like the book of Proverbs, full it pithy wisdom and advice. Here we are told to be happy, be joyful, don't let sorrow get you down. Not always easy in some areas of our lives, but still good advice.

Here are a few other pearls from the book of Sirach:

"Do not argue with the loud of mouth, and do not heap wood on their fire."

"Healthy sleep depends on moderate living. The distress of sleeplessness and of nausea and colic are with the glutton."

"There is but one who is wise, greatly to be feared, seated upon His throne - the Lord."

"Fight to the death for truth, and the Lord God will fight for you."

Lord, give me a joyful heart today. Give the strength and the will to share YOUR joy with others, no matter who they are!