Welcome December!

"But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart." - Luke 2: nineteen

I have always loved the month of December! *smiles* It is filled with the HOPE of Christmas and the birth of a baby who is everything. 

And just as Mary pondered and treasured the words and time in her heart, we can find so many delightful treasures in this month.

There are so many beautiful things to ponder: such as days filled with family and friends, delightful sunsets and sunrises, precious quiet, laughter, and beautiful snow (for those not in the south! *smiles*). There is the opportunity to step back and remember once again the most precious gift of the season does not come wrapped in a gift but in God's great love. 

As we enter into this month of peace I am reminded of the Hope that we have each day. Last year I came across this quote by the British evangelist Alan Redpath that seems so fitting as we enter this month- especially for those who are hurting:

"There is NO circumstance, NO trouble, NO testing, that can ever touch me until first of all, it has gone past Christ, right through to me. IF it has come that far, it has come with GREAT purpose!" 

At this season that can also be painful due to the loss of loved ones or the pain of present circumstances my prayer for each of you is that the Lord speaks His peace, love, and comfort to you in mighty ways. May He touch and comfort you in ways that only He can. I am praying that your Christmas season is filled with joy, rest, and peace!

Welcome December!