Learning the Joy of the Lord

I have not fully grasped the meaning of the “joy of the Lord” until I met my mother-in-law, May Ann Babcock. Even as a Christian, I have not understood what it means to be joyful. I’m usually calm and collected. I’m happy and content but not beaming with joy. There’s a difference.

Mom’s joy radiates from within. I’ve talked to many elderly people, and I couldn’t help but notice how different she is from most of them. While some live in sorrow, resentment, and bitterness, Mom’s mind is fixated on God and thankfulness.

Her life isn’t perfect. She’s been through tragedies. Her first husband passed away when her oldest son, Mike, my husband, was barely a year old. I’m sure she has a few regrets, emotional wounds, and battle scars. Yet they have not soured her spirit. Her faith and love for the Lord continue to carry her through.

When she prays, she believes that God has already answered her prayers. She never forgets to thank the Lord and give Him glory. Her faith is simple yet unwavering, her joy is authentic. She lives fully and loves deeply.

I may not have told her how much I admire her and treasure all the things I've learned from her. When I get old, I want to be just like her. I can be ornery if I don't watch it. There's no joy in being known as a grumpy, old lady :)

We are celebrating her 81st birthday next week. I would like to honor and thank her for her influence in my life.

Happy birthday, Mom! We love you!

Mother's Day 2016. Mary Babcock is on the left, the Whites on the right.

Happy birthday, Mom!