Moments of J.O.Y.

Heaven is Our Joy

When one of my oldest and dearest friends went into labor recently, I found myself consumed with anticipation. As I prayed for her and her sweet babe, I had butterflies in my stomach! The level of excitement I felt took me by surprise. I realized that the older I get, the tougher it can be to find true thrills in this life.

Long days, longer nights, work, financial pressures, relationships, communication and consistent global crisis wear me down. It’s important to be reminded that we are allowed to get excited, and in a spiritual sense we are called to an anticipation of Christ and Heaven. Which is why, no matter what, I think it is crucial to live everyday focused on the prize of heaven and eternal life with Christ. Sure, it’s easy to say to anyone, “Focus on the prize, not the work” but when you are in the grueling training for that prize, it can look and feel pretty bleak, can’t it!?

What can help is staying fully engaged in the relationships and moments around us, remembering that each moment we are passing through is one that brings us closer to Him and His presence. Jump headfirst into your life, Friend! Jesus, others, you; the J.O.Y life.

Romans 8:18, Micah 7:7

Dear Heavenly Father, I know that one day, I too will be a heavenly being! To consider an eternity without pain, suffering, aches; Oh Father! I cannot even fathom Your greatness and love. Thank you that You have given me this day to live through, despite the challenges and struggles I will face. Give me a vision for Your will in my life and help me to stay focused on that today. I love you, Lord! For all of these things I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.