Longing for Joy

Can we still have joy in a world of pain and anxiety?
The troubles around us and in our lives lead many of us into a joyless experience where despair and hopelessness are the norm. Yet something within us still longs for a joy that transcends our challenges and gives us meaning and satisfaction.
Through theologically grounded insights and research-based practices, Longing for Joy offers guidance for becoming people of joyful presence, even for those who don't consider themselves naturally inclined toward an enthusiastic, happy temperament. Addressing the realities of suffering and joylessness that so many experience, Alastair Sterne shows you how your inner longings for joy actually point you to a God of joy who gives you both the capacity for joy and the realities of joyful experience.
What You'll Discover

- How your desire for joy takes you on a journey to the God of joy
- Theologically rich and practical ways to cultivate enduring joy
- Research into the essence and practice of joy
- 22 short, reflective chapters designed for meditation and response
If you're seeking to deepen your spiritual life and live as a joyful presence in the world, this book is an invitation into the goodness and beauty of life as you were meant to experience it.

Alastair Sterne (DIS, Fuller Theological Seminary) is a creative director turned pastor. He serves as the associate pastor at Coastline Church in Victoria, British Columbia. He previously partnered with Redeemer City to City and founded St. Peter's Fireside, a creative liturgical church in Vancouver. He is the author of Rhythms for Life: Spiritual Practices for Who God Made You to Be. Alastair and his wife, Julia, write and podcast together at ordinarymatters.org and collect joy with their daughters in Victoria, British Columbia.