Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!  How often that is said throughout this time of year?  What are the thoughts and meaning behind those words?  This is me preaching straight to myself.  There is a sense of joy in my heart around this time and I want it to be for the right reason. The reason for this season in the first place. Jesus.  I love seeing my family and the social gatherings that are assosciated with Christmas are always nice to catch up with old and new friends.  There is still a sense of excitement of opening gifts and giving gifts as well.  The food and sweets around this time are also a treat, and if you know me at all, is definitely something I enjoy.  None of these things I enjoy around this special holiday would be possible to enjoy if it wasn't for Jesus Christ.  Everything on this Earth is by God's doing. So everything, especially the Christmas holiday, should have a focus on Jesus and a thanksgiving to the Lord for making it happen.

In Luke Chapter 1 Mary is filled with an overwhelming sense of awe for the Lord and all he has done when she says in verses 46-55:

"My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,

and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior,

because He has looked on me with favor

on the humble condition of His slave.

Surely, from now on generations

will call me blessed,

because the Mighty One

has done great things for me,

and His name is holy.

His mercy is from generation to generation

on those who fear Him.

He has done a mighty deed with His arm;

He has scattered the proud

because of the thoughts of their hearts;

He has toppled the mighty from their thrones

and exalted the lowly.

He has satisfied the hungry with good things

and sent the rich away empty.

He has helped His servant Israel,

mindful of His mercy,

just as He spoke to our ancestors,

to Abraham and his descendants forever."

This is the kind of mindset I want around Christmas, and all through out the year.  God gave His one and only Son to die for our sins so we could live eternally in peace and happiness with Him.  I say that outshines any gift, cookie or tree anyday!

My Everything

Is it not obvious how totally sinful and unworthy I am?

I don't deserve anything from You.

Yet, I need You for everything

and You selflessly give it to me through You own Son's blood.

My past, present and future sin nailed down Your own flesh and blood on a wooden cross.

You are absolutely incredible. mysterious. generous. comforting. encouraging. amazing.

You are my everything

My pick-me-up.

My guidance counselor.

My coach.

My teacher.

My leader.

My friend.

The last one is my favorite.

I love to call You and am blessed to call You my friend.

Spending time with You is always refreshing and encouraging.

You whipe my tears.

Give me advice.

Have a serious sense of humor.

Challenge me.

Comfort me.

Lift me up.

Push me forward.

I am moved to tears at the thought of all You have done in my life.

I pray You never stop testing me and refining me.

I am thankful for that and for conviction because I know it is bringing me closer to You.

You set it up so I come to You for help.

I am honored You care so much

and I will always come back to You.

"When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer"
 -Psalm 94:19