SPREADING IRISH JOY

With my four leaf clover headband lit up, the Irish creme cupcakes in the wagon, and my phone playing Irish jig, I was off to deliver cupcakes to my neighbors. Leprechauns look for gold at the end of the rainbow but I look for the Irish Joy to spread to all that are willing to receive it. As each neighbor opened their door, there was a laugh and then a smile. And then of course the joy of biting into the Irish cupcake made with Guinness stout beer, Irish whiskey, and the infamous Irish Creme. As I went from door to door I thought of my dad. As long as I can remember, he would sneak the Irish creme into his coffee every morning and just smiled. It also brought back memories of our trip to Ireland a few years ago when we retired. The lush greens on the hills, the joyous music coming from the pubs, the majestic Cliffs of Moher, kissing the Blarney rock at Blarney castle, and on and on. Yes, for that short time I was delivering my cupcakes, I found myself transported back to memories that bring such JOY to my heart. In times when we will all face trials it can seem impossible to believe that we will ever be able to smile again. The disciples felt that way too. Jesus had just died and was in a tomb. They had lost all hope…they were griped with fear, sorrow, and despair. But as we all know, the best was about to come!!! When JOY seemed impossible, Jesus rose from the dead and everything changed. They couldn’t wait to spread the Joy of Jesus, the everlasting HOPE, a new life with a future home in heaven! And so will you. Trials are not forever. Just like after the rains, a rainbow comes out to remind us that God will keep His promises. As much as I love spreading the JOY of the Irish, I love spreading the JOY of Jesus even more. May the sound of the Irish jig bring a hop to your steps and the Joy of Jesus bring you everlasting hope in your heart….