Between Heaven + Earth: Deb Dixon

Joy, rejoice or joyful is said to appear in the bible 430 times.

Romans 15:13:
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Philippians 4:4
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.

Psalm 118:24
This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

The busyness in preparing for this holy season can make me oblivious to the sources of joy that surround me. The energy, curiosity and unguarded love of my grandchildren are special sources of joy for me. Looking out the window to see a beautiful sunset over the South River, watching the playfulness of Zoe and Gracie, my golden retrievers, holding hands with my husband, and getting a “I’ve been thinking of you” phone call from a cherished friend … all can be routine but may also be true joy, depending on my perspective.

Being mindful and recognizing joy makes me grateful just for being alive. It also reminds me that I may be a source of joy for others!