So I have been contemplating participating in the “blog” world for some time, and finally was able to secure my son’s help in getting a trial one set up. So here I am, giving it a whirl. I will see how it goes, if I enjoy it, and if I have anything worthy or interesting to share! =)

So for my first post, I just want to share some about “joy” since that is a focus in the blog title.

This past week, my daughter and I were privileged to travel to Guatemala for a 9 day trip– her 5th time, my 1st. It was an amazing experience. Most evenings, our team would share at least one highlight or blessing of the day, a “joy,” if you will. This morning I was sharing one “joy” moment from our time at the children’s home, Casa Aleluya, with my husband. I told him out of everything we experienced throughout our trip, this was the one moment that touched me the deepest and brought tears to my eyes. We were privileged to attend a church service Monday eve., attended by all the children and staff at Casa. The worship time was so heartfelt and special. Everyone was singing and worshiping together, and even though it was in Spanish, the rest of us were still able to worship along with them “in spirit.” I don’t remember the words to the songs, but when they came to the part that repeated “Gloria” over and over, everyone was clapping, “dancing” at their seats, and raising their arms in praise to our Heavenly Father. The youngest children were to the right of our seats, maybe 2-5 years old, and when I saw their whole hearted participation, my heart just melted and the tears came as I caught a glimpse of Heaven. They were so earnest in their praises to God, joy emanating from their glowing faces. I had to think, these children came from unbelievable situations with much pain, poverty, abuse and neglect. They have very little material belongings, but they were full of joy, thanksgiving, and contentment. They are in a children’s home where their needs are met, and they are loved on by many, though not with their birth families. They don’t have all of the “stuff” children in the States seem to be “entitled” to. And yet I have not seen happier children, who are growing up in the knowledge of God’s love for them.

^{1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 “}Rejoice always, ¹⁷pray continually, ¹⁸give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Joy is not from our circumstances, but comes from contentment and an attitude of gratitude. Part of my efforts for this blog will be to regularly find those joys in life, share those blessings and develop a more grateful heart. God is good…. all the time…. God is good!