Joy, Azaleas & Family
Children - Faith - Family - Flowers - Grandparents

Joy of Family

Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Psalm 127:3

Recently my husband and I went on a trip to Florida with our daughter’s family. It was lovely to see spring unfolding as we drove south. The azalea bushes were full of blossoms.

We experienced joy walking along the ocean beach. Some went in the cold water to ride the waves. I was content to watch the sandpipers scurrying towards the water and darting back as a wave came in. 

We walked into town in the bright sunshine to visit the shops.  We watched the sunset together.

Our children and grandchildren are a blessing. Each has gifts and talents. A few years ago I wrote about God’s gift of children noting this rhyme.

Monday’s child is fair of face
Tuesday’s child is full of grace
Wednesday’s child is full of woe
Thursday’s child has far to go
Friday’s child is loving and giving
Saturday’s child works hard for his living
And the child that is born on the Sabbath day
Is bonny and blithe, and good and gay.

I remember coming across this rhyme when my children were little. I have a child that was born on Monday, on Tuesday and on Wednesday. Yes, Monday’s child is fair of face, Tuesday’s child is full of grace, but Wednesday’s child is a joyful blessing—not full of woe. 

The rhyme is just ancient fortune telling. Children are a gift from God. Every day is a good day to bring new life. Every season—spring, summer, fall and winter. One of my children was born in the spring, one in summer and two in the fall. I am most blessed by the family God has given. 

We have a biological family, but we are invited to another family. Jesus has provided the way for us to be included in the family of God. Jesus instructed the disciples to reach out to all people and teach them God’s word. He prayed for the disciples and for those who would come after.

“I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” John 17:20-21

Jesus also promised to be with us when we prayed together with believers.

“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” Matthew 18:20

I am hoping you find joy in family!

Carol is a follower of Jesus and a wife, mom & grandma. She worked for many years as a childbirth nurse and prenatal educator. She has retired from clinical work. She has written articles for nursing journals and devotionals. Her novel, Aliisa's Letter, was published in 2010 and she is currently working on another project.

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