When I came out to the sunroom this morning, I looked up and saw a beautiful yellow chrysanthemum hanging basket.

It brought me joy! I do love flowers and like to have some kind blooming at all times. There are so many varieties of plants that produce blooms. Some last for months like the orchid. Other blooms last only a day or maybe two like the hibiscus.

Back to the idea of joy. In one sense joy can be a temporary feeling, such as when I look at flowers. At times joy comes through relationships, such as a wedding, the birth of a child, or the celebration of someone’s birthday. In the last few months we have been blessed to be a part of ten birthday celebrations—from eight-years-old to eighty, plus a special ninety-fourth!

Each of these celebrations was different. Some were with a crowd of well-wishers at a restaurant, a church hall, or a home. One was a quiet gathering at a health care facility. Another was at the residence of one who is homebound. At least four of those being honored had significant challenges to their health, but they all were joyful, at least in the moment. However, the daughter of the eighty-year-old impressed me with her joyful laugh and delightful smile, in spite of her numerous physical challenges.

The title of this post comes from Psalm 30:5. The phrase that comes before the joy is “weeping may endure for a night”. Another verse (Psalm 126:5 NKJV) says “Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy.”  We all go through struggles in this life. Some show this through their expressions and their words. Others choose to keep a smile and a positive attitude.

Hebrews 12:2 says that Jesus endured the cross and the shame for the joy that was set before Him. When you feel that life is stealing your joy, look to the promises Jesus gave us that we can have joy in His presence.

You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalm 16:11 NKJV

So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you. John 16:22 ESV