A Happy Heart.

I am going to ask to be excused from all cliché and cheesiness for the next few moments.  But I just cannot contain myself any longer.  I am such a ham.

Today has been simply fantastic.  I seriously have been smiling non stop since my 8:25am ballet class this morning.  What is the deal? …I have been asking myself the same question, as well as every other person who has witnessed this today.  

Now I would describe myself as naturally optimistic and of a cheery disposition, but as of last Thursday evening, I have been beyond myself -- just ecstatic. Even now, as I write, I have this ridiculous smile beaming across my face.  It is the strangest thing ever but entirely lovely all in the same.

Recently, the Lord has really been helping me to be thankful for His small moments -- the things I often forget or take for granted.  And in doing so, I have become more and more aware of how good my God truly is -- just by taking a moment to look at all that He has given me...all that I do not deserve.

There is oh so much...but it would take a lifetime to list. 

So -- I will just share a few highlights of what has made my today…

First...

I have the greatest friends.  Ever.  And sure, who does not  say that...but I am a part of a family that was brought together by none other than God Almighty Himself.  Boom. We complement each other perfectly, each having an important role to play.  They make me laugh more than any other humans I have ever known.  They love me for the crazy that I am.  They are willing to get real with me...a little truth or truth, ya see.  But most importantly, they drive me towards Christ, to strive to be the woman of God that He has created me to be.  And that, my friends, is priceless.  I love you all so much. 

And a little more...

A girl asked me in ballet on Friday why I was always smiling during class, even when we are doing the most laborious and technical work.  I first shared with her that I am in fact a goon and like to make everything into a good time, as if she did not have that figured out already.  But then I told her that dancing is the single greatest gift that I have been blessed with and have no other response but to smile.  I often imagine myself being the only one in the entire room, just worshiping before my God.  And then, I get to share His joy -- with anyone and everyone who wants in on what I have inside of me.  It is just so perfect, so beautiful. 

And a little more…

I recently joined a ministry at the church I attend here in Minneapolis (Hope Community Church) where I will be a part of a worship team that will help out a recent church plant of Hope until they are stable enough to have their own team.  Basically I have the opportunity to lead people into one of the most wonderful forms of communication with our God while using yet another gift that I have been ever so blessed with.  Ah.  I am so excited.

And most importantly…

I have a Savior -- enough said.  He came to this world and gave His life, that I may live in Him and with Him for all of eternity.  He is my grace, unconditional love , satisfaction, mercy, forgiveness, peace, joy, self control, countless blessings...and so much more.  And yet again, my words fail to express the humbleness and gratitude and love my heart has for my Jesus. 

And what better reason can compare to the joy that I have found in my Lord.  He is so good.

Jesus paid it all;

All to Him I owe.

Sin had left its crimson stain;

He washed it white as snow.

"...in your presence there is fullness of joy…"

Psalm 16:11