Joy and Pain

Had lunch with my dear friend Stephanie this week and we discussed how often joy and pain collide as we walk this journey of life.  This past Sunday our pastor spoke of "spiritual markers" that change our hearts and lives forever.  At 5am this morning the Lord started reminding me of all the times that joy and pain have become "spiritual markers" in my life. 

• The joy of my salvation came through the pain of the cross.
• The joy of a blended family came through the pain of my parents divorce.
• The joy of a new home came through the pain of a house fire.
• The joy of my daughters came through the pain of two miscarriages.
• The joy of my husband's new job came through the pain of walking away from a dream.
• The joy of a new church home came through the pain of saying good-bye to a former church.
• The joy of adoption is coming through the pain of momentary separation.

When I look at joy and pain in this light, I begin to understand what James meant when he said "consider it ALL joy... when you encounter various trials."  This Thanksgiving, joy is shining through the pain.  Praise the One who gives and takes away.  Praise the One who turns our pain into joy.  Praise the One who will replace our pain with joy for all of eternity.  Praise Him, beloved, praise Him!!!