Transformational Joy

This heartfelt article shares the story of a woman whose faith expresses itself in movement—sometimes literally, through cartwheels. Reflecting on the beauty of God’s creation and the goodness of His grace, she invites readers to embrace the transformational joy that comes from knowing Jesus. Even in a chaotic world, Christ-centered joy remains a steady, soul-stirring response to His enduring love.

I am a Cartwheeling Christian.

When I see a wide-open field, beautiful sandy beach, or snow-covered yard, I feel compelled to do a cartwheel.

No, I’m not a gymnast. Simone Biles would be hugely underwhelmed by my form. As an everyday woman, I’m a mom to two young children and a wife to an amazing man. My career in communications keeps me busy, and I often feel stretched to the limits with my schedule and the demands on my time. Most importantly, I am a woman who has a deep love for Jesus and a desire to glorify Him within my life. From this love, and the joy He produces in me, I find my heart swelling in appreciation for all He has done for me. As a result, when I find myself moved by God’s goodness, revealed by His creation, I can’t help but do a cartwheel.

Cartwheels of the Soul: Responding to God’s Creation with Joy

My inclination to pull amateur gymnastics stunts reminds me of the truth found in Romans 1:20, “For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.” I feel it. When I am outside, enveloped in His beautiful creation, I feel called to move. It is the Holy Spirit inside of me, nudging me to respond to what my soul perceives.

It is bigger than that one specific moment, though. Even when I am not doing a literal cartwheel, I find my soul cartwheeling in response to all that Jesus has done for me.

Transformational Joy in Jesus

Jesus has transformed my life through salvation in Him. It is because of Him that I can actively express joy when the world around me is unsteady, tumultuous, scary, and divisive. Society is shifting in seismic ways, but Jesus still sits victorious on the throne. Because of who He is and what He has done, my soul can cartwheel with confidence.

We are promised, over and over, that we can—and should—have joy because of Jesus. The apostle Paul shares this truth with us in Philippians while actively incarcerated for his faith and relentless pursuit of sharing the gospel. Four powerful words summarize His transformational joy, and they are words we cling to: To live is Christ.

What we have experienced in Christ should move us to action. When Jesus is the center of our universe, we can cartwheel without fear or apprehension of what our turbulent world may hold. Our burdens are lessened, and our perspective aligns with The One who was there when all of creation was made. The One who is not surprised by how our world is broken in innumerable ways by the impact of sin. The One who promises to give our weary souls rest. Jesus.

Let’s define every moment with transformational Joy in Jesus. We place every problem—whether daily details or global struggles—into the context of who He is and what He has done for you, me, and everyone.

It is my sincere hope that you reflect on the goodness, grace, and redemption that you have received through Jesus. After reflecting, maybe you will be inclined to be a Cartwheeling Christian too.

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