Who I Am

 This was a fun essay I wrote in college for Biblical studies this semester!

Who I Am.

I woke up in my bed at the homeless shelter, groggy, and immediately turned to the Lord for refreshment in prayer. Thoughts of peace and hope filled my mind, another day of drug recovery, sailing with God. I picked up my devotional book and read the day’s message: it referenced, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds” (English Standard Version Jas. 1.2). I pondered trials in the past where patience was tested, and ridicule was observed. "Am I to be joyous in these moments?” I asked myself.

A few days later, at a revival meeting, peace permeated the air like a loving blanket, reminding me of childlike safety. Moments of glee and joy abounded, as we shared with one another in fellowship. The preacher spoke, and we all listened attentively, “Count it all joy”, she began. My interest was piqued, from the lesson repeated, like a sail catching a fresh wind.  

A couple of days later, I was serving at the shelter in work therapy. I was checking in clients' phones, and suddenly, the whole atmosphere of the check-in shifted, as clients flooded in with negative attitudes and rushed expectations. A few clients who had already checked in stormed the front desk, demanding immediate answers. The lone staff member looked around with a panicked expression, smelling mutiny. “Count it all joy” resonated in my head. I paused, in the midst of chaos and expectation, then smiled and joyously greeted the guests, resolving to answer questions with loving-kindness, anchored by this newfound security. Silently, I thanked the good Lord for His generous gift.