And so our tree is arrayed in all her glory. Last year we didn’t put her up, as Jan and I left town on Christmas Day. This year there are no children to gaze at her billion baubles and lights or sneak candy canes offered on her branches. This year she stands lovingly, nobly, pointing the heart back to joy. Joy that must be defended and pursued and received and given. Joy that offers hope and strength through every change and season. Joy that is radiant and quiet and lovely and strong. Joy that beckons peace in the midst of laughter or tears. She’s just a tree…guiding me to true north….

“The Lord your God is in your midst, A Warrior who saves. He will rejoice over you with joy; He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy.” Zephaniah 3:17