My brother Dwight is off today (his birthday is tomorrow) so we’re getting ready to gad about town in celebratory activities.  Today’s quick thoughts revolve around the concept of rejoicing.  We’re so grateful for the gift of his life – it truly is something to rejoice about.

At my Aunt Ruth’s memorial service this week my brother Dean read one of her favorite passages (also a long-time fav of mine) from Philippians 4:4-7

“Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, Rejoice.  Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.  Do not be anxious for anything, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” 

So amidst our Lenten journey, remember life is a gift.  Even as we fast & pray, let’s always remember to rejoice – because the Lord is indeed near to us, dear to us, ever-present in our hearts & minds & spirits.

grace, peace & joy

   Virginia : )

p.s. picture taken during last year’s celebratory visit to the Virginia Aquarium in Va. Beach – kinda cool, this turtle checking out his reflection in the tidal pool. Somehow it fits as we try enter into reflective mode & consider our lives as gifts ?  : )