Closed?!?

Mrs. Beaver:

Our twelve children with Anna's sister-in-law, Amber, on the far left

Since arriving in Cincinnati on Saturday, we've been hoping the weather pattern would break. The temperature has been about 30 degrees below average each day. We've been shivering in our shorts, wishing we'd packed jeans and long-sleeve shirts. It was NEVER this cool in May during the seven years we lived here! In addition to the chill, the continually heavy skies have opened repeatedly, dousing us.

Today we'd planned on visiting this city's amazing zoo. When we awoke to the same cold, wet weather, we changed our plans. We decided to make the 1-1/2 hour drive to Columbus to go to the science museum there, COSI. However, when we pulled into the parking lot we were greeted by signs that announced the museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

This vacation has been a reminder of God's repeated call in His word to be content. When we set our heart on circumstances, or other people for that matter, disappointment may very well be the outcome. God says that instead of pining for different circumstances or a change in people, we are to set our hope on Him. We are to fix our eyes on Christ. We are to cling to Him. We are to trust Him. When we do, joy is still possible, whether we experience disappointment or even devastation. "...in Your presence there is fullness of joy..." (Psalm 16:11) When we have Him, we have everything, including the strength to be thankful in tough situations instead of being bitter or broken