The Furnace of Affliction

Joys of Christmas

Many people do not experience joy at Christmas. My intent is not to minimize the hurt some face come holiday time. Personally, despite having several painful holiday moments, I still remember some of the joys of Christmas fondly. At thirteen, I desperately wanted a ten-speed Schwinn bicycle for Christmas. That was all I wanted and hoped for that year. We didn't have a lot of money at the time, so I kept my expectations low. Tip-toeing out of my room on Christmas Eve after everyone had gone to sleep. Quietly making my way into the living room, I headed to where our Christmas tree stood. There it was! Leaning against the wall next to the tree was a baby blue ten-speed bike! The lights on the tree were reflecting off the bike. Quickly retreating to my room, I wanted to scream with joy as I laid back down. I don't know how I ever drifted off to sleep? Seven years later, I surprised my girlfriend of two years with an engagement ring. The look on her face was priceless, and she said, "yes!" These experiences were the result of something joyful happening. However, nothing compares to the joy of understanding God's purpose for your life. I will share with you what real joy is in this inspirational book.