To Joy

As I look around my world, blessings peek around every corner.

The sun crests the pine covered hills as it saunters to its reign in the sky. The freshly mowed grass fluorescent in rays of light. Our new swing, steadily hanging from the majestic bough, quietly waiting for the laughter and love of a child.

A cute little munchkin sneezes as he’s sunken into a plush seat of blankets and cushions, dangling the unwound insert from his new movie. Wiggling. Off to explore again. Ready to unravel a new treasure.

Every night at dinner, my family takes turns answering the question, “What was your favorite part of the day?”

Usually, we understand a couple words from the little man…
Grampa, sissy, or park.

Little sweets usually has a list she sputters in between bites and thoughtful glances.

Daddy, answers slowly, his mind ticking, unveiling the jewels.

Finally, it’s my turn…I try to think of a moment that means something to each of them… Daddy coming home, sissy being such a good helper while cooking, brother sharing. My heart wells up… it’s the simple pleasures we share together.

The waking in the morning, dreary.
The frustration of being up till 3 before I realized my son had come down with a fever.
The continual moments of instruction and guidance.

The joy of seeing my husband and children laugh together.
The encouragement exchanged.
The drive to the store with just us, my mom taking the kids.

It’s these moments with family that build us. They provide opportunities to grow, to sacrifice. They give insight to our souls…and this is what we’re created for.

Relationship.
Ultimately, relationship with our Lord.

Oh, what joy.

I think upon my church family…those from my past, those in my present. I think upon my extended family…those I see often, those I barely know.

This is my treasure. The love of God shed abroad in our hearts. The breaking of dawn in each of our mornings. To this we have been called…

To joy.