Timeless Truth

Fire blazed forth from the LORD’s presence and consumed the burnt offering and the fat on the altar. When the people saw all this, they shouted with joy and fell face down on the ground. Leviticus 9:24 NLT

Thoughtful Wisdom

“Joy is the most infallible sign of the presence of God.”   – Teilhard de Chardin

“A happy life consists in the tranquility of mind.”  – Cicero

“I know why the caged bird sings”  – Maya Angelou

“O God, may I live to have one day of unsullied joy!”  – Ludwig von Beethoven

“Take all away from me, but leave me ecstasy and I am richer then that all my fellow men.”  – Emily Dickinson

“Joy is the echo of God’s life within us.”  – Joseph Marion

“Joy is distinctly a Christian word and a Christian thing. It is the reverse of happiness.  Happiness is the result of what happens of an agreeable sort. Joy has its springs deep inside.   That spring never runs dry, no matter what happens. Only Jesus gives that joy. He had joy, singing its music within, even under the shadow of the cross. It is unknown except as He has sway within.”  – Samuel Gordon

Treasured Gifts

* The rapture of forgiveness–a clean heart from the Innocent Lamb, unburdening our soul

* The enthusiasm of focus–a purposeful life of dedication to our Creator

* The joy of a grateful heart–humble gratitude brightening the day with sunshine

* The pleasure of God’s company–life’s Greatest Blessing

Today’s Affirmation

I will follow heaven’s formula for joy, letting my heart sing in rhapsody I can find nowhere else. (Psalm 118:24;  Philippians 4:4)

Pastor (ret) Johnny R. Almond