The depth of my joy comes from sorrow,
the breadth of my smile flows from tears.
Joy built upon pleasure’s too narrow,
will fade, then be lost, year by year.
The joy of the soul that is lasting,
is founded on Christ and His cross.
It’s encountered through prayer without ceasing,
and embraced by the carrying of our cross.
Approaching the Lord in His glory,
exposes all of my shame.
Trusting our God in His mercy,
frees us forever from blame.
Unconditional joy’s wrought by suffering,
it’s divinely inspired and given.
Whereby pain is transformed into healing,
step by step ever closer to heaven.
~FS
Prayerful Life 