It appears to me that rejoicing in the Lord is less feeling and more action. In fact, I think it is something to do with attitude from which action is born. As an example, those we love, that is not necessarily those people with whom we feel excited all the time, but we have a positive attitude towards their betterment. This means when they succeed we may not have intense feeling of excitement, but we do have a positive attitude towards their success. This I think is rejoicing in the Lord.
Secondly, I think rejoicing in the Lord means, rejoicing in the people for whom the Lord cares. Such rejoicing is poosible only if we can "empty ourselves." I am a teacher and I see everyday successful students who do not rejoice even if they have done well, because somebody else has done better. Such lack of rejoicing is common.
It is easier, I think, to share the sorrows of others, but to rejoice with someone who may grow above our shoulder's height seems to be something very difficult for people.
That is where I think grace enters the picture. Our efforts lead us to some extent but God has to help us.
Denzil Madhavan
