A Journey Comes to an End

I sit here reflecting over 2011 with so many mixed emotions. In some ways this year has gone so fast; in others, it has seemed almost unending. God has blessed us tremendously and He has been by our side through many ups and downs, twists and turns. I would be lying if I said that we haven't had some times when we felt all alone and times we felt we couldn't continue; however, through His love, support, and guidance, as well as the encouragement and support of family and friends, we have conquered this last year, and we rise up victorious.

Through some of my reading and studying, I'm reminded of some lessons learned and promises made to us by God. Five exceedingly great and precious promises are as follows:

1. God is ALWAYS with Me. (I will NOTfear!)
2. God is ALWAYS in Control. (I will NOT doubt!)
3. God is ALWAYS Good. (I will NOT despair!)
4. God is ALWAYS Watching. (I will NOT falter!)
5. God is ALWAYS Victorious (I will NOT fail!)

Lord, Jesus Christ, come and live Your life through me. Let my life be a semonstration of the living presence of Christ. Forgive me for trying to live my life in my own strength. Help me as I embrace these promises by faith. Thank You, God, that You are with me in this as I seek to live for You and to honor You and to bring You glory. Thank You that You are ALWAYS with me.

In James MacDonald's book Always True, he says, "Today I believe; tomorrow (or at some point in the future) I receive. The distance between today and tomorrow is called walking by faith. The hard part is in the waiting between the promise and the answer; and even harder, when the waiting comes with more hardship or even setbacks. While we wait, God gives us His promises to hold on to."

MacDonald goes on to say, God's promises are not just great; they're exceedingly great--greater than anything else:

• God's promises are greater than human wisdom.
• God's promises are greater than white-knuckled obedience.
• God's promises are greater than wallowing in self-pity.

God's exceedingly great and precious promises are your best possession:

• There's nothing remotely like them.
• They will lead you through the darkest night.
• They will carry you through the longest day.
• They will accompany you through the deepest valley.

I close this year with a heavy heart for those who I know need God's touch on their lives whether physically, spiritually, emotionally, mentally, financially, etc. I also close this year feeling very blessed and undeserving of the blessings that God has bestowed on me and my family. It feels good to close the book on 2011, and I anticipate the amazing things that God is going to do in 2012. Now to finish off this year with two of my favorite people, Ronny and Ashley. I thank God daily for the two blessings in my life with my Godly husband and Godly daughter. They have been my strength this last year. Good night and Good bye to 2011!

Finding Jesus In Christmas

When you think about Christmas, what comes to mind? Is it vacation time? A break from teaching, students, classes, etc.? Buying presents? Cooking all of that food? Entertaining guests? Practicing for the school or church program? Looking at lights? or racing with crowds of people to get the latest and greatest popular toy, movie or video game?

I think many times we forget what Christmas is really about! We forget that without Christ there would be NO Christmas. Santa, lights, and presents are not what Christmas is all about. These things add fun and wonder about the season, but without Christ we there would be no reason to celebrate! In fact, to take it further, if we don't think about the Cross, then the manger is just meaningless. Jesus was born in the shadow of the Cross so that we might have eternal life!

It is fun to give gifts, to honor those that we love, but do not forget to honor the One who gave His life for each and everyone of us! God gave his Son to us, knowing that while He was that precious baby boy being held in His mothers arms, He would one day stretch those same arms out on a cross and carry the weight of the sins of the world.

Take time this season to sit with your family and reflect on the greatness of our saviour! Reflect on the blessings He has given to you this last year, and how he has provided for your every need! Don't let Him get lost in all of the wrappings, food, festivities, etc. Find Jesus in Christmas this year!