Prayer to Choose Joy

St. Therese the Little Flower said, “Joy lives not in the things that surround us, but lives only in the soul.”

And now I understand… this is true because where Jesus abides, there Joy lives. Jesus is my Joy and He is always right here with me, abiding in the heart of my heart. Wherever I go, whatever I do or is done to me, He Who is my Joy goes with me. All that is necessary is for me to keep choosing Him, to keep choosing Joy.

Thank You, Jesus for Your abiding presence within us. Grant us the grace and strength to continually choose You and the joy of Your abundant life despite the sorrows and trials that are inevitable in this valley of tears. Stay with us, Lord for with You our burdens become light and true joy is possible. Amen.