My mind is searching through the haze,
lifting lids,pulling drawers,going from room to room.
I’ve lost it for much more than several days, months I realize.
As I feel doom sifting in, it’s more than having just lost a toy.
Memories are even fading, on its behalf.
But, I am so happy to say, seeing all the empty space, I have to laugh.
I got rid of it, it didn’t leave on its own.
I have many a place for Joy.
In a memory, in a name, in a scripture,
In a doll. It never really left me at all.
I was reminded that JOY does not leave on it’s own. Reading my daily bible verse in John 15:7, I read the entire chapter to see what was happening. It talks about Jesus being the vine,his Father being the vinedresser (I read from English Standard Version, ESV) That we are the branches and we are being pruned so that we may bear more fruit. That we can not bear fruit if we do not stay close to the Lord.
Reading further, I came across the verses that talks about abiding in His love. Then at the end of chapter 15, verse 11, I smiled because I have been searching for the word JOY wherever I go. This is a verse I have read several times, and shared.
Whether it be in a name, family, a phone call, a song, a book, a smile, a hug, it is a blessing to have and it is not comforting to have misplaced JOY. Verse 11-These things have I spoken to you, that my joy might be in you, and that your joy might be full.
Smiles, laughter, and joy are contagious, and it is so refreshing to be around, or be the one that is joyful. Smile at someone. They may not smile back, but later maybe they remember your smile and they are happy for a moment letting a bit of joy come back in to their heart.
May JOY be found in you, for you to give to others, wherever you are, whatever you are doing, wherever you go! 🙂 Jen