It's Christmas Time!

There are so many things that Christmas used to mean to me. The other day I heard a sermon and in one of the stories told, a little boy asked "what do you think Jesus wants for his birthday?" I'm ashamed to say that while in the hustle and bustle of service, even then it is easy to forget to slow down and meditate on the birth of our Savior. 

Christmas time is often described as the most "magical" time of the year. When we take out the commercialized reasons: the glitz and glam portrayed in movies, ads, etc., and think more clearly about what this day symbolizes, I imagine we begin to recognize the ongoing gift that Christ has given us. I don't believe that there is something magical about Christs birth - but there is something miraculous. 

We're not celebrating just the birth of a baby - we're celebrating the birth and later the resurrection of our Savior. We're celebrating the kindness of our Creator by extending His mercy and favor upon us so that we may be reconciled with Him. We have access to peace and joy everlasting. Not only that but this peace and joy that is given to us is meant to be shared with our family, friends, and neighbors. We are invited into this love and we are called to share the love. 

I encourage you to not only give generous and thoughtful gifts but also a lasting gift this Christmas time. Give quality time, lots of hugs, encouragement, reconciliation to your dear family and friends. May the richness of God's love for you overflow into your home as you celebrate the birth of Christ! 

Merry Christmas & thank you for your love & support of my Mission Year in Houston!