The Greatest Gift

In Colossians 2:3, Paul tells us, "God has hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge in Christ."

When I read that verse, I have this searching and researching urge and want come up in me at first, but in light of the life of Christ...the relationship that Jesus coming in human flesh makes possible, I remember that wisdom and knowledge and anything else needed for life and godliness is found is resting in this loving relationship that He offers to me. The greatest gift ever given and regiven and regifted and regifted. The gift that is regifted to every open heart that will allow Him room. And the gift never decreases with multiplication, instead the Kingdom of God increases exponentially with each heart filled. This is the economy of heaven...love and light. May I open my heart wide.

James 4:14,
Camelot

Christmas, Vacations, Birthdays, and Reality

For me other than the actual age I am approaching, this week has been full of anticipations. Last night I drove home knowing that we are in the darkest time of the year and I was so encouraged by the Christmas lights. I do not think they have inspired me to tears like that since I was a child. With Christmas approaching, my family is going on a much needed vacation to one of my favorite vacation spots and it is my birthday. I have so many "things" to be thankful for. On top of this I found out my mom was going to be able to come for Christmas this year. So as you can imagine my heart is swelling and I am giddy about the next few weeks. Then...

I meet with a lady who is in her darkest moments of life. Her reality is very different on this day, this month, this year even. Her relationships are failing because well people are people. Miscommunication is almost insurmountable and she is not even good at that when it is good. She says she is done trying. The only thing that she wants is for people to leave her alone to her own remedy. But she knows Him. She knows Jesus. She may have lost sight of His truth amidst a sea of confusion, but she loves Him.

It got me thinking about how we say "Happy" Thanksgiving, but we say "Merry" Christmas. Happy is for me always denotes circumstances. We can come up with all things if we search for them to be thankful for, but Christmas is different...it is not about our circumstances even a little bit. While Thanksgiving is about who we are grateful to and for and for what, Christmas is about Joy. Merry Christmas is not something you look for in outward circumstances, but rather in the midst of the circumstances, He is the light that shines.

So even though according to my friends I have rehashed all that I am excited about somewhat sarcastically and playfully this week. These circumstances are not Christmas. And even though my sister in Christ is experiencing more than she thinks she can, the conclusion that emerged in our conversation is the Merry "Joy" of Christmas...

HE CAME...that so that His sheep will have life and so that they will have everything they need. John 10:10

 
"Come close to God, and God will come close to you." James 4:8








James 4:14,
Camelot

It's All About Perspective

Yesterday I went into the local Christian bookstore to pick up a book. As I browsed a little I found this small advent candle holder.

I have been looking for one like this on sale for a few years now, a family style size set. 

Notice the broken candle. (Hence the Half price) Sometimes,for some reason, I go into the Thanksgiving and Chrstmas season leaning out, a little off. This year is definitely different. I am leaning in. 

I have so much to be thankful for. My daughter, of whom I am so proud of, is celebrating Christmas with us as a full time resident for the last time (probably). There are many other things to be thankful for. At different times throughout the season, we will spend time with all of the grandparents. We will have a chance to travel with this candle set to celebrate in Lynchburg, Florida and then home for the holidays. 

First, My daughter will light a purple candle, then my 4 year old nephew, the the pink one will be lit by Sam's mom, and finally the last purple one by my mom, lighting the candle for the last time at our house with my husband, my daughter and my mom. 

Truly my heart is swelling withe the verse inscribed on the little pewter holder... Prepare ye the way of The Lord. Mark 1:3

I know I know 55 days left til Christmas, 

Some say this is too soon, there are 55 days to go

Some say there are only 55 days left.

I guess it's all about perspective ... And Jesus of course!

James 4:14,

Camelot