Devotions from Judy’s heart

I just took a rhubarb cake out of the oven and the whole house is full of the wonderful aroma. Al and I are fasting today in preparation for his retreat with the men in Iowa this weekend…. and fact that we are denying ourselves today makes the aroma even sweeter.  Yesterday we ate out at a Mexican restaurant and came home so full that I wouldn’t have even cared for a piece of cake. But today is different!  Sometimes when things are withdrawn from us for a time or we deny ourselves, it makes something even more appreciated and special. I’m sure we have all been disappointed when something we care for is withdrawn, but also remember the joy of when it is returned…it means even more!  I know that is true concerning my health when I was sick in the hospital. Getting home and feeling good again was heavenly. I was more appreciative of everything. Let us be thankful in all circumstances like Paul: “I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances.  I’m just as happy with little as with much, whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am.”  From  Eph 4