This Christmas season has come and gone. The anticipation of lots of food, fun, gifts and family gatherings has been swept away in what seemed like only a fleeting moment in time. What remains though are the wonderful memories made, family relationships renewed and strengthened, and the love shown to one another. These are are the things that really matter. The time spent with family and friends and the love given freely to others. Just as God did when he sent His son, Jesus, to be born on earth as a man. The One to whom we celebrate during the Christmas season.
In the eyes of the world around us, our family's Christmas was slim, to say the least. There were not loads of presents under our tree for everyone. Some of the gifts were even Thrift Store or Tag Sale finds. But you know what? That didn't matter. There was so much laughter, joy, fun and love that was shown and shared that my children didn't mind.
They have learned over the years that it is not what you get, but the manner it which it is given. LOVE. That is the important thing. I am so thankful that my children have learned this lesson early, for they will be able to carry it with them into their adulthood. They will someday be able to share this with their own children.
God has been so good to us this year. He has blessed us in so many ways. He has brought my family through some tough times, but He has always been faithful to provide our needs. Not necessarily our wants, but our needs.
As I reflect over the past year, there have been struggles (financially) and heart-ache (loved ones who died) but, these things do not compare to the Blessings that have been bestowed upon us. We have a roof over our heads. We (Bill and I) have wonderful jobs. We have food on our table. We have our health. We have wonderful children and grandchildren. We have family and friends around us.
Therefore, Our Christmas was one of great Joy. We are able to look back on this year and with grateful hearts know that we have been Blessed. Looking forward to the New Year, we have lots of dreams and plans. Who knows if they all will come to past? Only God knows. But we will leave that up to him.
"For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope." Jeremiah 29:11
I do hope and pray that you had a wonderful and joyous Christmas and may you be Blessed during this coming year.
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