Kindness in the New Year

Ephesians 4:32
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

It's that time of year when the excitement of Christmas is rolled up and put away. I have mixed feeling about the week after Christmas. Being off work with a few days to do whatever I want makes me happy. But my heart breaks a little that Christmas is over. Although it took months to prepare for, I love this time of year. In the next week or so, I'll pack away the Christmas tree and decorations. The stores will pull out their Valentine items and maybe even Easter. I'll go back to work and life will be "normal" again.

Even though much of the holidays will be tucked away. I hope a few things continue. Christmas time brings out the kindness and thoughtfulness in people. Dare I say the magic of Christmas sprinkles over people and makes them more aware of helping others, perhaps. But I truly believe people recognize the reason for the season. No one on this earth showed kindness the way Jesus did. He healed the hurting, gave to the needy, and shared with his friends and family. Jesus showed more compassion than anyone. So much so, he gave his life for sinners like me. Whether we want to believe this or not, Christmas draws attention to the kind of man Jesus lived as. He gave kindness and compassion, forgiveness, and hope. So no, kindness and compassion don't grow from magic. Instead they spread because of Jesus. So while we put away Christmas, let's keep the spirit of kindness out and pour it over the people around us. In 2018, share kindness and compassion as part of the everyday. Love God, love people.

Wonder and Celebration!

Luke 2:11
Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.

Celebration and wonder. Two words I think of at Christmas.

I tend to wonder if all the celebration I generate glorifies Jesus. This year, I started in September. Since I create some of my gifts by hand, I have to get an early start. I make my lists, I search for bargains (we have a big family!) and I wrap. For two days, I wrap. The tree sparkles in the corner (thanks to Maggie) and the manger scenes are scattered around the house.  I make fudge, cookie dough, pizza dip, cheeseball, and cranberry cake. And oh yes, a birthday cake for Jesus. I clean my house—company's coming. The cards are in the mail and the Facebook greetings are posted. Did I miss something? Probably.

So much celebration for a tiny King.

Are you exhausted after reading my Christmas to do list? I am. Until I remember why I overextend myself this time of year. Jesus walked on earth for me. He came as a baby, grew into a man, then sacrificed his life for my sin. He did all of that for me and for you. What I do to honor his birth is minuscule compared to what he has done for me.

The hustle and bustle can be overwhelming. But for me, every cookie I bake, package I wrap, gift I buy reminds me of Jesus and his love for me. Yes I can get caught up in the chaos and forget the reason for the season. But I've learned—and it's taken years—to stop, even for a moment and think about why I celebrate my Savior's birth as I do. I want to  let the pure intention of showing Jesus to the world shine through my traditions. I want everyone to know how much Jesus loves them.

 Jesus is why I celebrate Christmas, I want to let that be known in all I do.

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas filled with joy, peace, hope, and wonder!

A Season of Hope

Matthew 12:21
And Jesus name will be the hope of all the world.

Christmas is a time of joy, but it can also be a season of sadness. This past week we lost two wonderful men. My uncle Floyd and our dear friend, John, left this earth.

I'll always remember my Uncle Floyd's ornery smile. He never failed to ask me, when I was a teenager, if I had a boyfriend yet. He embarrassed me, but I loved him anyway. I'm thankful that years later he got to know my husband, Tim. Even more important, he grew to know Jesus.

We met John and his wife Jessica at church. One of the first things we knew about John was how much he loved his family and his Savior, Jesus. John suffered with physical pain for years, but it didn't stop him from serving at the church and giving his all to the people he loved.

Knowing these men loved God fills my heart with hope. I've no doubt Jesus has opened his arms to them. Because Jesus came to earth as a precious baby, lived a life sharing his story of faith, and died on the cross to be raised back to life—we have HOPE. Floyd and John's families and friends anticipate seeing them again in heaven. That's a hope that blesses us here on earth.

If this holiday season is a time of sadness, believe that hope in Jesus soothes the soul. Jesus loves us and desires his children to trust in him. I pray he has all the folks who are hurting wrapped in his arms of hope.

With Jesus, hope shines through the darkness of despair.

Joy Sparks Joy

Matthew 2:10
When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! 

I just finished reading Blessed are the Misfits by Brant Hansen, Star radio DJ. In the book he poses the question, "Can a person have depression and joy at the same time?" That got me to thinking, can we invite joy into our hearts during the holidays, no matter the circumstances? Can I be joyful during the holidays even when... 

I'm a single parent and, by America's standards, I can't buy what my children want...

I've lost a loved one who won't be here to wish a Merry Christmas...

I'm a high school student who has no close friends...

I'm a college student struggling to balance work and school...

I'm a parent rushing from activity to activity just trying to get it all done...

I'm a soldier, out of the country, with no hope of being home for the holidays...

I'm just overwhelmed with all the preparation of Christmas...

I haven't experienced all of these scenarios, but I've had my share of struggles during the holidays. Circumstances that could have stolen every speck of joy from my heart. Yet, God shined on me through his people and his word. I found if I could muster one little spark of joy in my heart, the fire would burn and spark delight in my soul. The wise men found joy when they saw the star and realized Jesus was nearby. He is for us too. Jesus is here. He has the joy we desire. Not happiness that's fleeting, but joy that underlies all circumstances. Even when everything seems difficult or frustrating, Jesus' joy is like a buoy that helps me through the tough times.

Have you ever been around someone filled with joy. Their joy sparks joy in others. Let's set the world on fire with JOY!

I hope this Christmas is filled with joy for you. But if not, I challenge you to ask God for joy. Jesus gives the true joy of the season.

A Man Called John

John 3:3
The prophet Isaiah was speaking about John when he said,

“He is a voice shouting in the wilderness,
‘Prepare the way for the Lord’s coming!
    Clear the road for him!’”

Luke 7:27
John is the man to whom the Scriptures refer when they say,

‘Look, I am sending my messenger ahead of you,
    and he will prepare your way before you.

True confession #1: I started preparing for Christmas in September. Anyone who creates arts and crafts understands. I had a few ideas for gifts and knew I needed to get started. True confession #2: I started listening to Christmas music in November. I love the joyful songs of Christmas, and they fuel my crafting fire. True confession #3: I've been bing watching  Hallmark Christmas movies since the last day of October. Again, fuel to keep my hands creating and my heart engaged.

Preparation is an important part of the Christmas story. Before Jesus walked the roads and preached his message of salvation, God sent John the Baptist to get people ready to accept the Messiah's appearance. John spent years preaching in Judea, even Jerusalem. He spoke about repentance and baptism. John, born a few months before Jesus, came to tell a new story. He was rocking the world with his talk about one who would be the ultimate sacrifice for sin. His preaching contradicted the religious leaders and their teachings. But, his words were given to him by God. John the Baptist's faith is pretty amazing. He took God at his word. He trusted God's plan for his life. As you plan for the holiday, give some thought to John and his story. His life wasn't easy as he forged the way for the Messiah, yet he remained faithful.

 “Someone is coming soon who is greater than I [John] am—so much greater that I’m not even worthy to stoop down like a slave and untie the straps of his sandals. I baptize you with water, but he [Jesus] will baptize you with the Holy Spirit!” Mark 1:7

Kindness: In Uniform

Ephesians 4:32
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. 

Because I love snow and Christmas, Tim surprised me with a day-trip to Marblehead Lighthouse State Park. After four+ hours on the road and a quick stop in Gibsonburg to pick up my favorite doughnuts, we pulled into the almost empty parking lot. Snow covered the ground and before us stood Marblehead lighthouse decked out in garland and greenery. The moment I stepped out of the car a sense of peace washed over me. Calm swept across my being. I don't find many places on this earth where I fall into a totally relaxed state. But on that small peninsula surrounded by rocks, water, and this time of year—snow, my soul felt a sense of awe and wonder. We wandered around donned in Santa hats for an hour or so. What a wonderful gift for the season.

But that's not the whole story. As we explored on the rocks and snapped photos of the beauty that surrounded us, another car pulled in. Two young police officers climbed out and wandered toward us. They appeared to be checking on the park as they walked out to the rock we stood on. At first they chatted, asked us where we were from and what we we're doing. I'll admit, I got a little nervous. I thought maybe we shouldn't be in the park. As the conversation continued, they complimented us on our holiday hats. Then they did something so sweet. One officer reached in his pocket and pulled out a gift card. "We're doing 'Gifts from Cops'," he said. He handed me a Target gift card. Kindness in uniform. Not only had the trip made my day. Their kind gesture pushed the joy meter to the top. Policemen work on the holidays, they protect us, and watch out for us. And they take the time to be kind. I gave the young man a hug and snapped a photo of them with Tim. I pray those two young men have a blessed holiday.

I hope you have the opportunity to share Jesus' love and kindness with everyone you meet. Merry Christmas!

Galatians 5:22-23But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Patience: At Christmas?

Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

I remember one Christmas, as a child, I snooped for gifts. Under my mom and dad’s bed I spied a toy ironing board and iron and a few other items that looked like they might be for me. That was the year that I figured out that Santa left the presents early and in my parent’s charge J. My lack of patience in waiting for Christmas morning brought some disappointment. I wondered if Santa even existed. I think I was about five or six years old. 

Had I waited until Christmas morning to unwrap my treasures, I could have avoided my doubt and enjoyed the morning through a child’s eyes one more time.

Sometimes as an adult, I forget the lesson I learned so long ago. I still resist waiting. In some translations of the Bible, the fruit of the Spirit lists forbearance as patience. Webster defines forbearing as holding back with effort. Patience requires acknowledgement and effort. Sometimes I'm not as patient as I need to be. Yet I know from experience when I do produce patience, God blesses me. I continue to work on this part of the fruit of the Spirit, and I thank God that he is patient with me.

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 

Joy: Go Tell it on the Mountain

Psalm 19:8
The rules of the Lord are right.
    They give joy to our hearts.
The commands of the Lord shine brightly.
    They give light to our minds.

At church last Sunday we started singing Christmas carols. The music of the season is so beautiful. As we worshiped God one of the men lifted the rich timbre of his voice to lead us in "Go Tell it on the Mountain." Pure joy came from this singers lungs. The melody floated out over the congregation as the words of the old hymn resonated through the sanctuary. At that moment I felt the pure joy of knowing my Savior came to earth for you and me. 

Joy isn't something momentary. This deep satisfaction, contentment, encouragement, and peace are not brought on by the temporary. Pure joy is knowing no matter what, Jesus loves me. My littlest granddaughter picked up a tiny Bible from my bookshelf yesterday and started singing "Jesus loves me this I know." Pure joy bubbled in my heart. This a joy only found in Jesus. I pray everyone finds that joy this holiday season. Praise God for sending his son.

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 

And the Fruit of the Spirit is Love

Romans 12: 9-10
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.

The holidays bring out the best in us and sometimes the not so good. As I say good-bye to another Thanksgiving and hello to Christmas, I want to focus on the fruit I'm to produce as a follower of Jesus. 

I was telling my husband the other night, as we checked out a few early Christmas lights, how much I love the spirit of the holidays. Happiness that seems to float in the air. The holidays are a time of love. A time to honor family and friends. And a time to give love to the people we don't know by giving. God calls us to love, not just those who are easy to love, but all people. I need to pour my love over each person as in turn I spill out Jesus' love.

Jesus tells his disciples, in John 13, to “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” He knew that when he went to heaven he needed to leave his followers with a direct command. Those words are for us, too. Jesus wants us to love each other and to show that love by listening, showing compassion, meeting needs and sharing Jesus. Loving others is not always easy, but God gives us the tools we need. If we tap into his tool box, the Bible, we find love enough to share. 

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 

Not a Creature is Stirring

Luke 2:28-35
Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:
 “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
    you may now dismiss your servant in peace.
For my eyes have seen your salvation,
   which you have prepared in the sight of all nations:
    a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
    and the glory of your people Israel.”
The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”

The day after Christmas and all through the house not a creature is stirring...

This morning I picked up the remnants of last night's party. My fridge is full of left-overs and my heart overflows with the joy of family. We shared gifts. Some hand-made, some made for spending later. And I loved every one. We added new family this year and watched a sweet 18-month old enjoy the magical chaos. And in the midst, we read of the angels who announced to the shepherds, the birth of the man who would be Savior.

Yes, Jesus came to earth as a baby. And I love celebrating his birth. But more than that I love remembering his life. He walked the earth for thirty-three years. In his last three years he taught his followers and all who would listen about God. He spoke the beatitudes. He preached of light and salt. He was tempted and baptized. He lived so he could die for me and all who walk on earth. But most important, as I told my grandchildren last night, he rose from the dead to offer new life after this one ends. I love Jesus and thank God for his son. Praise God for the gift of life!

Oh Christmas Tree

Luke 2:11

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.

Christmas trees adorn the windows of the stores and businesses. Some twinkle with white lights, others don red ribbons. I've even seen a few pink ones. In the morning, while the dark still covers the day, tree lights peek from behind curtains. In our home a silver tree lights the corner with multi-colored lights. And what a fun sight to see a car zipping along the highway with a fresh cut tree tied to the top.

The evergreen tree has been a symbol of hope since ancient times; a reminder that spring followed winter. Since the evergreen doesn't lose its leaves and remains green all winter, it's also a great symbol of life. Because Jesus Christ died on a wooden cross, sometimes referred to as a tree, I'm reminded of his sacrifice every time I see a Christmas tree. The evergreen has life through the winter when other trees stand stark. Jesus offers life in heaven, where God reigns and life flows abundantly. This Christmas as I look at the beautifully decorated trees at a time when I celebrate Jesus birth, I'm reminded of his death and resurrection. Praise God for his son.

Merry Christmas! May peace and joy fill your days.

The Promise of Angels

Luke 2:9-10
An angel of the Lord appeared to them [the shepherds], and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people."

I snuggled on the couch with my seventeen-month old granddaughter, Ella Cate, on my lap and my grandson, Eli, beside me. On TV the Grinch tortured his poor dog, Max, by plopping reindeer antlers on his head and forcing him to pull the sled. As Max flipped and flopped through the air Ella Cate giggled. The more the poor dog struggled and acted goofy the more she laughed out loud. The tinkle of her laughter filled my heart with joy. And isn't that what Christmas is all about. The joy of the season.

Too often the stress of the holiday and the sadness of life overwhelm. Then I hear the sweet sound of a child's laughter or the tender voice of a grandchild saying he loves me. I see friends hug as they greet one another. I watch a mom love on her kids. Jesus came to earth to bring peace and joy. Though the world is not at peace right now and sometimes joy is not obvious, peace and joy remain in my heart because the Holy Spirit dwells in me. As Christmas draws near, I'll cling to the promise of the angels. Jesus brings good news that will cause great joy. Praise God for his precious gift.

Sparkle and Twinkle

John 8:12
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

Along the village streets twinkling wreaths hang from the light poles. The new trees in the medians are decked with strings of multi-colored beauty. Greenery twined with lights drapes along the concrete bridge. I get to see this beautiful sight every morning on my way to work. The other night Tim and I took a spin around the neighborhood to look at Christmas lights. Some homes looked like gingerbread houses. Sparkling trees peeked through the windows.

Every light I see reminds me of why we celebrates Christmas. The true light of the world came as a baby and grew into the man who would sacrifice his life so I might have grace. I love what Jesus said to the people, "Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." Even when circumstances bring despair and gloom, I have Jesus' light inside me. He guides my path with his light. Praise God for light!

The Best Gift

Ephesians 2:8-10
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Black Friday, the craziest Christmas gift shopping day of the year. Some of my nieces love going. They enjoy the thrill of the hunt. I'm content to do a little online shopping, or maybe wait for cyber Monday. My husband would tell you, I'm a bit painful to shop with. I put items in the cart, take them out, put more in, take it out and usually end up with what I chose in the first place. And yes I do that online, too. I've never been particularly good at choosing gifts, but I try my best to find something the recipient might like.

I've received many wonderful gifts through the years, but there's one that's changed my life. Jesus gave his life to save me from the deprivation of this world. His death and resurrection gives me the freedom to live with peace and joy even amidst the despair and worries of life. Having Jesus in my heart gives me the hope of eternal life in heaven. I love Christmas, the gift giving reflects the best gift God gave. And that's a beautiful thing.

Joy!

Luke 2:8-11
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”

Sometimes Christmas isn’t jolly or merry. Spirits sag because someone may be away from home and unable to spend the holiday with loved ones. Illness doesn’t stop because we celebrate. I can remember a few Christmases when I was sick or my kids were. Mom spent Christmas in the hospital one year. When our grandson Eli was born, he and his mommy and daddy celebrated in the maternity ward. I think about the folks who work in health care and public service, who sacrifice to care for people. I’ve never worked retail, but I can imagine the holidays may not be pleasant with all the shoppers on the prowl for the perfect gift at the perfect price.

Even as I contemplate the sadness and stress that can surround the holidays, I know the message the angels carried to the shepherds makes all the difference. They didn’t just say Merry Christmas. Instead, they brought good news of great joy. A joy that overcomes all weariness, sadness, and pain. As I go through the season, I want to share God’s love and joy by saying a kind word, thanking people for their service, hugging those who need encouragement and praying for those in need. Jesus is not only the reason for the season; he’s the joy in my heart.