“In Thy presence is fullness of joy” (Psalm 16:11).

Allen and Gabriella didn’t know how to tell seven-year old Jeffrey that his Grandpa had gone home to be with the Lord. Even though it was not unexpected, tears came to the eyes of both parents. Grandpa Greenley was a special man who had loved the Lord, and even in his later years of suffering had maintained a precious testimony of God’s grace. Jeffrey loved his Grandpa. “How are we going to tell him?” Allen asked with a muffled voice. “Tell me what?” Jeffrey asked as he startled both parents. “Why are you crying?” Jeffrey asked as he put his arm around his mother. “Well Honey, we just found out that your Grandpa Greenley has died. He has gone to be with the Lord Jesus,” Gabriella answered. Jeff was very quiet. He climbed up and snuggled on his dad’s lap. “Daddy, my JOY Club verse said, ‘In Thy presence is fullness of joy.’ Do you think that is true?” Jeff asked as he looked up at his father. “Yes Jeffrey. I know that is true,” Dad answered. “Then why are you and Mommy crying? If Grandpa is so happy, why are you so sad?” young Jeffrey asked. He would discover in the days ahead that the tears weren’t for Grandpa. He was experiencing the fullness of joy. The tears were because he would be missed. How amazing is the faith and understanding of a child!

For today: If you know Christ as your Savior, the best days are ahead. The Bible calls it, “fullness of joy!”