Wednesday, December 16, 2009

"Angel Unawares"

Bonjour from Campagne Maison


(photo by Ana, "A Petite Cottage")

I was pleasantly surprised when I read Ana's post this morning! I have been muddling over the JOY issue for the past couple of weeks and even wondered out loud "what has happened to MY joy"?. (That is one of the issues that inspired my previous post about being "too busy")

Are you like me and find yourself so tied up with family issues and multiple other outside events that you forget to take that precious, much-needed time for yourself and REfuel your spirit with JOY? Every day is holy! We needn't be sorrowful, for the JOY of the Lord is our strength (Neh 8:10). Today I am making a conscious effort to REfuel, REplenish, and REfresh my spirit with JOY. If you will all join with me today, there will be JOY unspeakable...

Ana also had a surprise for me in her post! Be sure to go over and take a look at what she has been up to! http://apetitecottage.blogspot.com/

Today, Ana has been my "Angel Unawares" (Heb 13"2)...thank you, Ana.

Thanks for stopping by the farmhouse for a visit today. We love having company.

Au revoir,


11 comments:

Chris said...

Dear Jacque,

Your post could have been written by me. I have been wondering what happened to my Holiday spirit. Then, when talking to a dear friend last night, I realized that I am in control of my emotions, my attitude and my time! I have been focusing on all the wrong things. From today forward, my Holiday season is going to be so much more joyful.

Thanks for an inspiring and spirit-filled post. I wish you a blessed Christmas!

Chris

Sea Witch said...

A timely post. It is so easy to hide Joy away when we have consumed our lives with so many activities and appointments. How true that we bring this all upon ourselves, the chase, the attitude and yes, the JOY! My joy right now is my blog for the raviolis. I am receiving such joy from each posting I put up. Thanks for a wonderful post that reminds us that we are as joyful as we allow ourselves to be. Sea Witch

Anonymous said...

Very timely and insightful. I love the Christmas season but at times I don't feel joy because I get overwhelmed with what I have to do. This year I've done (or not done) a lot of what I want to do, not have to do.

Anonymous said...

JOY, Jacque Offering Yuletides, TL

Lorrie said...

Joy is often elusive, isn't it? For me, it comes and goes, but I keep clinging to the truth that "the joy of the Lord is my strength" and that a joyful heart is a product of my relationship with Him.

Wishing you much joy as you celebrate...

Lorrie

Ana said...

Hi Jacque,
You are a very sweet and dear friend. Stay strong in Him and may the joy of His love fill your heart and fulfill you always. Sending hugs and prayers your way. Thank you for the beautiful and touching comment. Wishing you always all the best for you and your family.

Much love to you,
♥Ana

Jan said...

Hi Jacque, Your post has inspired me, and I am following your advice.
This year has been a difficult one, and the joy has just not been there.
I am glad I read your post to remind me of what is important.

Many Blessings,
Jan

Sarah said...

Jacque, I think Joy comes from the simple things in life. This afternoon we were invitied to a neighbors to celebrate her 95th birthday. Her care giver arranged all the details. Sweet, dear Alice had a house full of family and close neighbors. My husband and I left full of joy knowing this special lady is so loved. Bobbie, the gave giver, had prepared a beautiful table of food, had arranged for two young boys (also neighbors) to play their guitar and violin as entertainment, and had completely decorated Alice's home with a Christmas village and large Christmas tree.
Joy to your, sweet friend! ~ Sarah

Barb said...

Hi Dear Jacque,

I pray that you and your family has a very blessed Christmas.
I have loved getting to know you this past year. You rock girl!

big hugs,
Barb

Linda@Coastal Charm said...

Merry Christmas to you and your family!

Blessings,
Linda

WendyBee said...

Just found you, by linking from "My Romantic Home". I am immediately charmed by your esthetic, by your living a Christian life "out loud", and because you live in a place called Sweetwater. (I love when places have appealing names.) I am looking forward to tunneling through your archives and savoring your words.
WendyBee