Joy

"When a woman is in labor, she is in anguish because her hour has arrived; but when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the pain because of her joy that a child has been born into the world. So you also are now in anguish. But I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you." (1)


Everything Becomes A Joy

His hand holds all that comes her way;
She receives His gifts gratefully.
Even the burdens of the day,
Are light when love serves faithfully.

His will knows what best suits her need:
At first, her heart may hurt and heave;
As she follows, His love will lead
Her into peace -- He will not leave!

Soon, ev'rything becomes a joy,
As wheat is harvested from weeds:
He transforms all her hands employ,
And His love dominates her deeds.

Her heart dances with levity;
She smiles through the deepest pain.
She seeks His will, not His pity --
Within His rest she will remain.

The Lord loves our joy and laughter;
Joy is a hint of hereafter.

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May the joy of the children of God be made complete in our hearts in the midst of our greatest trials.