Muscle Spasms

“You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; in Your right hand are pleasures forever more.” Psalm 16:11
              
     It was prayer time and Sweet Pea wiggled with excitement. The next day was early dismissal from school. She was looking forward to an afternoon of fun! Beside her leaned my husband. He grumbled in jealousy. If only he too, could enjoy a half-day of work.

     Sweet Pea beamed. She delighted in teasing her father. Amused, I listened.
     “And Lord,” grinned Sweet Pea, “thank you tomorrow I have a half-day of school.” She glanced meaningfully at her dad. Her eyes sparkled and her smile stretched wide. Sweet Pea continued praying. But after a few more items of prayer, she circled back around.

     “Lord,” she continued, “thank you again for my half-day tomorrow and…” Suddenly, a squeal burst from her lips, interrupting her train of speech. Startled, I glanced over. My husband’s hand rested on her rib cage. And it was squeezing. Or shall I say tickling?

     After a few more giggles and wiggles, Sweet Pea kept praying. A huge smile split her face. She cast a furtive look at her father. Then, Sweet Pea tried again.

     “Thank You that I only go to school for a half- “Once more a shriek of laughter split the room. Again, my husband’s hand convulsed.

     “Daddy,” I remonstrated, “leave her alone.” A smile tugged at the corners of my mouth. My own laughter echoed through the room.

     “What?” He grinned. He was the picture of innocence. “my hand just has muscle spasms.” As to prove a point, his hand spasmed again. Shrieks permeated the air. But Sweet Pea was not finished. Delighted at the game, she once more resumed her prayer.

     “And Lord,” she laughed, “Thank You I have only a half-day…” My husband’s thumb and fingers squeezed. This little game continued. Silly it may have been, but filling our hearts and spirits with joy, it did. Laughter and giggles filled the air as Sweet Pea writhed away from her tormentor. But a smile of pure glee washed over her.
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     Peace flooded my heart. Joy permeated my soul. And in my heart of hearts, I believe the Father was smiling. For as the three of us snuggled close and shared laughter, the joy of the Lord surrounded our hearts, souls, and mind. For in the presence of God is fullness of joy. And if we surrender ourselves to Him and His ways, we know His pleasures forevermore. May each one of you know the joy of the Lord this day. Look for Him and open your hearts to His great love. And may you know the goodness of our loving God.