Right now, the church expects to walk with her Lord along a tough road, pushing through many hardships to reach her crown. Carrying the cross is her mission, yet the church also has a deep well of joy that only her true children can experience. Hidden in the heart of our spiritual Jerusalem are stores

of wine, oil, and grain that continuously sustain and nourish God’s people. And sometimes, just like our Savior, we have moments of deep joy because "There is a river whose streams make the city of God glad." Even though we are exiles, we rejoice in our King, yes, we greatly rejoice in Him.

A tiny plant deep in the forest had prepared a small flower bud, not yet open, and the plant had no worries but waited for the right time. Could it hope that the great sun would notice it and send its warm rays to help the flower bloom? Yes, even through

the thick branches, the sunlight found its way, and the little flower blossomed, shining like a crown. In the same way, grace will come to those who seek it because the Lord never forgets those who long for Him.