1072 Serving the LORD with Gladness

Life is a matter of choices. God has set up this present creation focused on choices. From Eve until now each of us choose who we will become, not only now but for eternity. Even though many blame circumstances for their failures, the reality is that a great number stand as proof of those who have overcome conditions much worse than those who have failed, and even managed to help others along their way.
These are people who have met adversity with perseverance and ultimately succeeded. These people are looked up to and admired. An example is a war hero who saved lives at great risk of their own, and maybe even suffered permanently from their efforts. Many find pleasure in honoring them in various ways, even to the extent of providing free homes.
In Psalm 100 verse 2 it reads, "Serve the LORD with gladness". Unfortunately the vast majority of believers serve because of the need, duty, or a sense of guilt.
None of these produce gladness; oh we may feel a sense of greater worth if we meet a need but that is a self serving motive.
How can we serve with gladness? In the same way those who honor heroes serve? It is a matter of honor for us to have an opportunity to do something for someone one who has done great things for others. (see the PDF for the rest of this description)