Thankful Thursday ~ JOY

I haven't posted in the last couple of weeks.. even though I had so much to be thankful for. My blog focused on the garbage of politics and the world, and although I believe that stuff is important, I forgot to look for blessings. In this time of national and worldwide need and scarcity, my family has all we need. We are well fed, warm, and dry. The Lord God is our ever present provider. But that is just the beginning.

Without consciously doing so, I am sad to say I did not see all the blessings the Lord was pouring out on us. As I have woken up and "counted my blessings" perhaps the one thing I am most aware of this week is how thankful I am for JOY.

My husband is forever a source of joy. First, he is a hoot. He gives puppet shows to the kids that he comes up with off the cuff, telling delightfully funny stories with porcupines and rhinos and all sorts of silliness. Second, he is a source of quiet joy. Compliments flow easily and sincerely from his lips. Those who spend time with him share good talks and a willing ear. And a general sense of optimism is another of the blessings he often gives to those around him.

My children have inherited that sense of spontaneous silliness and the ability to grab joy. Laughter is a very common sound in my household. Don't get me wrong we have our squabbles and bickering and moods... but the general feeling in this house is JOY. Children are wonderful at experiencing it. Sometimes adults forget... but looking to our children helps me reconnect to a sense of fun.

God also promises us joy. He is our source of joy. A joy we can have in all circumstances because no matter the circumstance, He never leaves us nor forsakes us. He is forever our redeemer and Savior. His joy is deep and quiet and real.

Join in at Thankful Thursday.