It was over 20 yrs. ago when I saw this picture for the first time.  A funeral director friend of mine had invited my sister and me to go to Shakertown with him and his wife to eat.  After we got there, he asked, “Do you want to see my pride and joy?” as he reached into his coat pocket.  I figured he was talking about his grandchildren, but then he pulled out this photo.  He always had a great sense of humor, and I found this amusing. 

We often hear people use the phrase, “pride and joy” when referring to their children or grandchildren.  As parents or grandparents, they are quite proud of their loved ones, and they are filled with joy.  In Luke 18, we read this passage:

 People brought babies to Jesus, hoping he might touch them. When the disciples saw it, they shooed them off. Jesus called them back. “Let these children alone. Don’t get between them and me. These children are the kingdom’s pride and joy. Mark this: Unless you accept God’s kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you’ll never get in.”    (vs. 15-17, The Message)

You may have never felt you were anyone’s “pride and joy”.  Your parents may have treated you as though you were “shame and misery”.  But, rest assured, your Heavenly Father loves you—He’s proud of you, and you fill His heart with joy!!