Christmas is Coming!

Christmas is coming! Hooray! This year I have not gotten caught up in all the gift buying/holiday preparation frenzy as we honestly cannot afford such extravagance. Instead, I'm focusing upon the meaning surrounding this blessed season. And my heart is filled with joy!

There have been challenges galore in 2011 for my family. The heartache and struggles we've endured have enhanced  my testimony to how God has worked and is working in my life. Praise the Lord!

A number of years ago there was a popular story passed among Christians called "Footprints." I have it hanging in my kitchen as a matter of fact. Basically, it's a story about a man who takes a walk along a beach  with God over a course of his lifetime. Two sets of footprints are evident during his lifetime except during times of trial. God explains that those were the times He carried the person. What a marvelous illustration! God carries us during our times of trials, just as a loving parent carries a child. We are HIS children.

He sent HIS SON to live among us teach us His ways and to save us. That's what we celebrate at Christmas!

Do not let the circumstances of your life take away the joy in your heart as you anticipate the arrival of the Christ child. And please don't get so caught up in all the secular rituals of the season that you forget that God gave US the perfect gift already. You're not going to find it at the mall! Instead, you will find the perfect gift in a manger in Bethlehem. Jesus. Emmanuel- God With us. I cannot think of a better gift.

My wish for you at Christmas is that you, too, can experience the joy in your heart that comes in knowing that God loves you! He's there during all the storms as well as all the triumphs. Praise the Lord!

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Follow Him Faithfully

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