John 15:9-11  “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. 11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.

Happiness and Joy seem to be interchanged all the time but the reality is that happiness is directly related to our circumstances and joy is based on our relationship with God.  It can happen in our darkest times as well as good times.  I love how in verse 11 it talks about our joy being made complete.  It is based in God’s love for us and knowing that whatever happens we have a hope and a future that we can give thanks and have joy in.  The night Cecelia passed away I had just left the hospital and gotten home for a little rest and the phone rang.  Before I answered I said a little prayer fearing what it might be.  Upon answering my fears were confirmed but I can say I truly felt the joy of knowing who was in control.  My spirit was giving thanks for a life well lived and with the realization that Cecelia was entering into her rest and glory.  I had to fight the feeling of being uncaring in my head because my spirit was telling me all was well.  Our God is an amazing God!