You may not be old enough to remember this hit song by Leslie Gore from 1963, but the words are still great to sing, “My life is sunshine, lollipops and … Everything that’s wonderful is sure to come your way. …” While I am not quite sure about the lollipops, I do know that sunshine is a game-changer for me. And this week we have truly been blessed with some wonderful, sunshine-filled days.
Two weeks ago, as we were driving south for a little get-away, we drove through some pretty dense fog and drenching downpours. I know I should not be complaining – we missed all of the snow and frigid temperatures those in the Detroit area experienced. Our drive back this past weekend was much easier – all dry roads and eye-squinting skies. My – what a difference this little thing makes in what is taking place inside of my head!
However, of even greater consequence in my life, is the constant shining of God’s SON, Jesus. “In him is life, and (he) is the light of humanity. This light shines in the darkness, and the darkness is not able to overcome it … This true light, which gives light to everyone, has come into MY world” (John 1.4-5, 9) I cannot help but think about him as I sing, “Sunshine, lollipops and … everything that’s wonderful is sure to come your way – Cause you’re in love, you’re in love and love is here to stay.” After all, “God is love” (1 John 4.8), and yes, God – and the SONSHINE of his love – is here to stay!
I am not well-versed with Emoji, but I did discover there is one of a lollipop (I wish I knew how to find and use it!). The “internet-so-it-must-be-true” meaning for the Emoji of this colorful hard candy on a stick is “associated with childhood, playful mood, sweetness, joyfulness, and happiness.” I wonder if Jesus was thinking about lollipops when he said, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such is the kingdom of God. Truly I say to you whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” (Luke 18.16-17) “Sunshine, lollipops and … Brighter than a lucky penny, when you’re near the rain goes, disappears, dear and I feel so fine just to know that you are mine” … and that I am Jesus’ little lamb.
“Sunshine, lollipops and …” Now, for the rare individual who never heard Leslie’s song and those who have not seen the 2009 film “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs,” you may be wondering about the “and …” Your hint is found in Genesis 9.12-16. I hope you read these verses. They speak of a wonderful sign God has placed in the sky as a reminder of his faithfulness … a reminder to all creation that he keeps his promises.
“Sunshine, lollipops and RAINBOWS!” The sweet joy and hope of SONSHINE and lollipops is ours because of the rainbow faithfulness of our God in Christ. “He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1.9) We read his promises … he shines his light into our hearts … nurturing our childlike faith … and songs of praise fill our lives.“Sunshine, lollipops and rainbows Everything that’s wonderful is what I feel when we’re together. Brighter than a lucky penny When you’re near the rain goes, disappears, dear And I feel so fine Just to know that you are mine.” Today I am simply hoping that this song is stuck in your head for the rest of this day … and that you know that God’s love for you in Christ Jesus “is here to stay.”