Brother, Cousin, Warm Weather!

Another long but restful flight was now behind me. The plane was once again empty which meant me sprawling across 3 seats... and that's what I call that first class, the Garcia way! My brother Jake had little notice but was no less punctual about meeting me at the airport. I had no phone, he had no way of telling if my flight from London would arrive on time, but it all worked out.

Wearing long johns seemed like a good idea in Europe, and it kept me warm in the plane. However, wearing thermal leggings in 75 degree humid Florida didn't quite have the same comfort effect.

How fortunate I am to have such a welcoming family. Not too long ago my cousin landed a show at Disney World, where my brother also found work. They're staying in my uncle's condo nearby... and now I am too :) It's a beautiful community with a laid-back feel. I'm taking this time to thaw-out, enjoy some family time, and spend some time with the Lord.

Home for now

Oranges so close I could smell 'em

During my devotion this morning I found this inspiring quote in my Life Application Bible: "Happiness depends on happenings, but joy depends on Christ." It's true that happy is a great emotion. When I'm having a good time with friends and family, when I'm finally able to purchase that item I've had my eye on, or as I'm anticipating exciting travel plans--it's great to experience that high. But like most feelings, happiness is fleeting. Friends/family may leave or pass on, material things fall apart, and my travel comes to an end (in my case very abruptly, haha). Joy is different. True joy comes from the knowledge of our Lord through faith "...and he was full of joy, having faith in God with all his family." --Acts 16:34. This is because we know that if we have truly accepted Christ as our Lord and Savior, then we are saved for eternity "I give them eternal life and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand." --John 10:28. And unlike happiness, there can still be joy during hard times because we're secure in Christ, as Paul wrote in 2nd Corinthians 7:4 "...I overflow with joy in all our affliction." What a great encouragement that statement is.

So my prayer today is to focus on my life as being "hidden with Christ in God" (Col. 3:3), not only when things aren't going my way, but also when they are... like now that I'm hangin' out with my 'bro and 'cuz.

Good to know that large Floridan birds make use of the sidewalks here.