Joy is in the Journey

As I sit leaning against our couch in our own apartment, I am overwhelmed again by the goodness of God, and the compassion that He has shown towards us.

I could reflect on His abundance in providing an awesome job in a great location, with fantastic bosses, but that happened a long time ago.

I could reflect on His blessing me with a beautiful baby girl, her loving older brother, and the world’s greatest mother as a wife, but that was so two weeks ago!

I could reflect on His greatness in providing us time with family, with my mom who arrived hours before we went to the hospital, with Sarah’s parents visiting us for a week, and getting the chance to talk to my younger (taller) brother during the drive from the airport during a lightning-fast trip to Denver.

But the blessings that have overwhelmed me tonight lie neither in the occupational, material, nor even the relational blessings God has given us (though they are great). Throughout today I have just been reveling in the greatness of His peace, and the joy that comes from a simple life.

I have been working hard since Arianna was born. My work was very flexible to allow me to take four days off for her birth and getting her settled back at home, but after that I launched back in, picking up an extra day to make up some of the difference. Then last week I worked Sunday-Thursday while Sarah’s parents were visiting, then flew up to Denver to drive the 13 hours back to Phoenix with our new/old car (my beloved PT) on Friday. Sunday, I was back at work again, until today I finally (and accidentally) got some rest.

I didn’t realize how much I needed a break. I guess I’m a glutton for punishment.

Today, I spent time with my man Giolo. We wrestled and ate and did man stuff.

Today, I spent time with my lady Ari. I held her and tickled her and tried to coax a smile from her beautiful face.

Today, I spent time with my gorgeous princess of a wife. We shopped and talked and lived life together.

This is what it should be about. This is what we have been missing. It’s so easy to get bogged down by work and politics and the things of everyday life that we miss the joy of the journey. I know I do. But today has been a reminder to me that there is more to life than advancing professionally, than earning beaucoup bucks, than being up to date on the latest gizmos. It’s a life of simplicity that I yearn for.

Lord, thank You for Your rest. Lord, thank You for Your peace. Lord, thank You for Your Spirit in our lives. May all who read this thirst for and know the eternal goodness of the joy You have given us through Your name. Amen.