Celebrate Gladness

So much rejoicing.

Food, kids, and dancing. 

We made joyful noise unto the Lord.

Chatted with those who serve. 

Thanked Jesus for What He’s done,

And no evening was lovelier. 

Simple Joy

I love quiet one-on-one time with those who make me smile. And today, that happened. My little sister, Elise, and I biked the sandy roads to our home. It was hot, we were tired, and we were happy to have a calm house to ourselves for some time. I brewed tea (raspberry-pomegranate is my new current addiction). She talked. I listened. We sat there, sipping our tea, eating muffins, and simply enjoying each other’s company. Before the others came home, she told me, “This is so nice. We should do this again!” Her sweet heart makes me happy. 

Ruska

It’s a Finnish noun referring to the process of leaves changing to the colorful shades of red, yellow, purple, and brown in the autumn. (One of the beautiful things that I miss living here). 

I read this passage earlier today:

All the nations you have made shall come and worship before you, O Lord, and shall glorify your name. For you are great and do wondrous things; you alone are God. Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name. I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, and I will glorify your name forever.

Psalm 86.9-12 

Let these words be forever true, that we may praise Him for all Who He is, all He has done, and all He will do in the future to come. We are not worthy; yet in His amazing goodness, He teaches us and guides us and loves us. Let us worship Him, love Him, and thank Him forever. 

Arms of Strength

I am tired and worn and feel I might break;
I wrestle with stress and it makes my head ache.
But through Your loving kindness and fatherly care,
You hold me upright so life I can bare.
A touch of Your grace I do not deserve,
Who's child am I that tenderly serves?
I stumble and falter, yet You are still near
Your peace, Your presence - it brings sweet tears.
Though weary I wander, Your promise remains,
You carry my burdens and quiet my pain.
So I'll rise again, though feeble, I'll stand,
Held firm in the grace of your merciful hand.

There's no feeling quite like accomplishment. Having something done, completed, out of the way, is wonderful. Freedom. Feeling light. Knowing that goals have been reached. Peace of mind has been established and motivation has once again been restored. Behold, the power of pushing forward.