Revising Joy: Lessons from The Grinch
Friday, December 8
Revising Joy: Lessons from The Grinch
A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22
Beneath the whimsical tale of The Grinch lies a profound story of transformation, redemption, and the power of love. In the movie opening we find The Grinch living in a quiet solitude of his mountaintop home, the Grinch lives isolated from the Whos down in Whoville. In our own lives, we sometimes isolate ourselves, closing off our hearts and slowly lose touch with others and most importantly with God. When this happens, we find it difficult to experience peace and joy that is offered to us through Christ Jesus.
The Grinch living alone and isolated is famously described as having a heart that is “two sizes too small.” As the Grinch witnesses the Whos’ genuine Christmas spirit, his heart begins to change. Despite the Grinch’s attempts to steal Christmas, the Whos in Whoville continue to celebrate joyfully. He was exposed to kindness through Cindy Lou Who and this encounter set off a series of events leading The Grinch to change. Can you recall moments in your life where witnessing love or kindness has softened your heart? If so, give thanks for the transformative power of love and ask God to reveal opportunities for kindness in your own journey.
Just as the Grinch’s heart grew, may ours expand with love, kindness, and the true spirit of Christmas. May this season be a time of transformation, unity, and the joy that comes from embracing the light of God’s love.