Day 16: Non-food celebrations

Today we celebrate our 26th wedding anniversary.  It's been a crazy day, starting with needing to get Larry's car into the shop last night, so running him to work today--to Emma's doctor appts and complications--to a busy work schedule.

But somewhere in all of that, Larry got me 26 roses, which are beautiful.  And they make me happy to see them and don't add a pound.

Wishing you all the simple joys of life.

Since I've been putting recipes in here this week, here is a Recipe for Joy by Dr. Adrian Rogers:

"These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy 

might be full." (John 15:11)

Now here’s a recipe that you may want to write down.

• 
  
• Take one life.
• 
  
• Mix in everyday amusements, responsibilities, hassles, relationships, struggles, and routines.
• 
  
• Sprinkle in equal parts sorrow, affliction, and tribulation.
• 
  
• Add a generous amount of Jesus.
• 
  
• Mix thoroughly and knead well until Jesus is present throughout. 
• 
  
• Yield: One joyous Christian.

Wait a minute! There has to be a mistake in this recipe. Maybe you’re thinking of the recipe for happiness. There is a difference. 

Happiness requires that things go your way and that circumstances are just right. Joy, on the other hand, is much deeper and can withstand the trials and sorrows ─ that is if your joy comes from the Lord.

When Jesus spoke in John 15:11, He was facing the cross. The circumstances were dire and left nothing to be happy about. And yet He did have joy, and His desire is to pass that joy to us.