Merry Christmas!

Isaiah 9:6-7

For to us a child is born,

    to us a son is given,

    and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called

    Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

    Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Of the greatness of his government and peace

    there will be no end.

Christmas is here! God is with us, and God is alive in our world. Jesus gave everything to come into our world, and there is nothing that can separate us from Christ’s love. This is the Good News the Angels sang about, and it is for all people. This year I hope we can take a little bit of time to hear the story again with fresh ears.

My two little boys are filled with such excitement. They have been practicing their Christmas songs, acting out the story, and eating plenty of treats to get into the spirit. I know that I am truly blessed to watch them grow, but they can also be pretty exhausting. They need constant reminders to get ready, brush their teeth, and get moving! It can be fairly frustrating at times. 

Instead of letting our frustrations win the day, I hope we can all cherish the blessings that are in front of us. Life is filled with plenty of things to stress about, but we are also surrounded by God’s good gifts. God gave everything to love you… let’s cherish this love today!

Blessings!

Brian

Are you ready for Christmas?

There have been years when I really struggled to get into the Christmas spirit. All the decorations and festivities seemed like they were coming too quickly, and for whatever reason, it was hard to make room for the Joy of Christ. However, this year has been different. I am personally feeling the Joy of the season! My two little boys, three years old and six years old, both bring an enthusiasm that is infectious. There is a joy in our house that makes everything feel exciting and new.  They love putting up the Christmas lights, setting up the tree, and making gingerbread houses. They seem to have a joy that surpasses all understanding!

Jesus said, “Anyone who humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven.”

-Matthew 18:4

Jesus wanted us to open our eyes and see everything anew. Christ has come to our world, and we are invited into the Kingdom of Heaven. We don't have to stay lost in the worries and fears of the world. We are invited to have faith in a love that runs through everything. We are invited to trust, as children often do, in a love that deeply cares for us.

Is there a way you can capture the joy of the season? It is not always easy. Transformative moments can slip away as easily as they arise. I have found the Holy Spirit is rather hard to control. It’s like trying to get a Christmas photo with kids… There is joy and wonder in the moment, but you just can’t force it! (See the photos below :)

 

Today I hope you can allow the Holy Spirit to move in your life. I hope you can believe that you are loved, and that God came into this world for you. These are moments to prepare for and cherish. Let’s open our hearts to Christmas!

Blessings!

Brian