I can see it there, through the to-do lists, the hustle and bustle of the season. I get glimpses of it when we all slow down enough to laugh or pray. I want more of it in every season of life, but especially now, it’s the one thing I’m praying for this Christmas.
JOY.
I know the joy I need – the unwavering, not-dependent-on-circumstances kind – comes only from Jesus. It’s why I spend every morning with Him, asking Him to fill me up so that I might overflow to those around me. But I also know that my human nature can so easily be swayed by children who won’t obey or projects that take longer than they should or one more unexpected expense. I need Jesus to fill me up with His joy, but then I need to do something joyful to carry it with me. Real, tangible joy moments in the midst of work, and yes, sometimes chaos.
My search for those real joy moments this week has had ebbs and flows, but as I look back through my photos, I see His fingerprints all over it. He is answering my prayer for joy this Christmas exactly as this visual learner needs it.
This week, joy looked like…
A secret shopping mission with my two big boys…
A peaceful family Friday night at home…
A day of Christmas baking…
A magical date night with The Hubby…
And a super fun Ugly Sweater Run with sweet friends!
Joy in the small, the silly, the ordinary moments – He is so faithful.
Friends, He wants to answer your prayer this Christmas as well. And I would love to pray for you. What is that one thing you’re praying for this Christmas? How do you need God to show up in your life as we celebrate Him showing up on earth to save us all? Yes, He does care that much – about you, about me, about our needs and desires.
Leave a comment below or email me at homewiththeboys at gmail dot com with your prayer request – it would be a joy to lift you up in prayer today!
I'm Erin, a wife, boy mom x 3, writer, and runner in Nebraska! I'm excited to share all my favorites relating to faith, family, fashion, and fitness in this space! Enjoy! 
This post to is so timely! I have been so distracted with “surviving the holidays” that I have not found the JOY. I have been stressed, stretched and overwhelmed. I love your post- so powerful with truth. It encouraged me today in so many ways to look to Jesus for joy. I need wholeness- in body mind and spirit. This homeschooling mom of 3 boys is tired. I am battling self esteem issues which have caused stress and led to physical issues. I battle perfectionism and it literally robs me of all the joys in life. I need to b set free. This is my prayer.
Thank you for sharing, Melissa. I’ve been praying for you and will continue!