Day Three: Reaping What You Sow

How can one even begin to express in words the joy that is contained in one's heart? J.o.y. Buried beneath the pain and the suffering and the loneliness. Joy. Joyful hope for tomorrow. Joy in the truth that I am saved and sanctified and set aside. For a purpose. Joy roaring up out of the depths of my soul. And I share it with you. Pure and simple joy. Whether you are in the midst of difficult circumstances. Loss of a job. A loved one. A wayward child. Joy. Gratefulness. Thanksgiving and praise. Open your eyes. Open your heart and begin searching for that which was lost. When bitterness and grief and rage stole your joy. When it slipped out of your grasp and you gave in to the darkness. Open your eyes and look for that little flicker of light. See the gift in the moment and seize it. Grab hold of the gift and see it for what it is. Joy. Joy in all things. A child's laugh. Bells ringing. Snow gently falling. The first robin of spring. An unexpected visit from an old friend. Rain that finally comes. Cookie crumbs on the table. See the joy. Expect the joy. Be grateful for all He has done. When something becomes a burden think back to when you prayed for that very thing and remember the initial joy. The birth of your child. Your wedding day. A home of your own. Take back the joy and live.