Joy that lasts

My family, my friend Karen and me all went out to eat this year for Thanksgiving at Golden Corral. Not knowing what to expect at this Thanksgiving, every thing that happened throughout the day was a true blessing. We all set our coats and things down at a table and braved the crowds at the various buffet stations throughout the restaurant.

Walking up to get my traditional slice of turkey, I waited in line until it was my turn to tell the nice man if I preferred ham or turkey. I looked right at the man serving everyone, smiled at him, and asked for a slice of turkey. He just stared at me for a second with a slightly baffled look, and asked, "Well, why are you so happy today?" I hadn't even noticed the joy on my face, but I simply replied, "God is just so good!" I wasn't afraid to tell a complete stranger the honest truth! The man didn't say anything back, but I just walked away feeling amazed at the level of peaceful joy I've been experiencing in the last week. It's like a joy I've never known before, in the midst of hardship. I love my Creator so much, and I guess I can't help but show it on my face because of everything He has done for me. I can't get over His goodness, I can't get over how much He loves me, as broken and sinful as I am. He is beautiful.