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Have you ever wondered why one yawn can set off a series of others? We’ve all seen it happen. Someone in the room stretches their arms and lets out a yawn, and soon, others in the room follow suit. But why? What is it about yawning that causes a chain reaction?

Scientists say yawning is contagious because of mirror neurons—the part of our brain that causes us to mimic what we see in others. It’s linked to empathy, connection, and even social bonding. In other words, we reflect what we witness.

Want proof? Order dessert next time you’re out with a group of friends and watch—one by one, others will start ordering too. And if you pass on dessert? Chances are, they’ll suddenly lose their sweet tooth too. What we express influences those around us, whether we realize it or not.

In much the same way, joy has the potential to spread. In fact, it’s about as contagious as a cold virus on a packed city bus. When we witness someone rejoicing—whether in worship, gratitude, or celebration—it stirs something in us. We are wired to catch joy, just as we are to catch yawns.

Just look at 2 Samuel 6. When the Israelites brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, David didn’t hold back in expressing his joy. He danced before the Lord with all his might—unapologetic, uninhibited, and completely surrendered to worship. And in doing so, he set the tone for the entire nation. People shouted, played instruments, and celebrated as they carried the Ark. His joy became their joy.

David’s joy wasn’t contained—it was contagious. It was so powerful that it provoked a reaction—both positive and negative. While the people rejoiced, his wife Michal looked on with disdain, proving that joy can stir different responses. But David didn’t let that stop him. His joy was rooted in the presence of God, not in the approval of others.

Now, imagine what your joy could do.

What if your worship, your gratitude, and your faith became the spark that ignited joy in others?

What if, instead of being hesitant, you lived with the same unashamed joy that David displayed?

Joy is contagious. And in a world filled with discouragement, your joy might be exactly what someone else needs to see today.

This Week’s Printable

Here is this week’s printable. Click the image to view and print a higher resolution.

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