The Week of Joy
At the birth of your Son, you whisper to our hearts, Father, as you fill us with the joy of our salvation. We thank you. Amen
Weekly Advent Prayers by Betty Claire Jackson
By Tina McCartney
Psalm 40:16
When you are going through the worst experience of your life, a life-changing experience, can you still find joy?
As Mom and Dad lay in their hospice beds together, holding hands, Mom would ask Dad, “Jerry, are you all right?” Immediately Dad would reply, “I’m great, Barbara!” Then a few minutes later, Dad would ask Mom, “Barbara, are you all right?” She would immediately respond with, “Don’t worry about me, I’m doing just fine, Jerry.” This went on many times a day for two days. When Dad closed his eyes for the last time, Mom woke up and we told her of Dad’s passing. What was her response to losing the love of her life? Without hesitation, with a smile on her face, “I am so happy for him and I’m next!” This is one of the last phrases she ever spoke. That’s when I knew it was going to be okay. Her joy for Dad was so evident and she couldn’t wait to join him.
During the time of their sickness, I found such comfort in God as I experienced the worst life-changing five days of my life, an experience I was not prepared for nor could I change. I was helpless and in deep despair. During this time God blessed me with good memories, support of family and friends, scripture embedded in my heart and soul, and laughter of family as stories were being told. The more I sought Him during this time, the more joy I was able to experience. He provided what I needed, and I knew He was thinking of me, helping me through it all.
My prayer for each of you this Advent Season is that you can find true joy and happiness in Him. Know He is great and is always thinking of you.