Tag Archive | Holidays

Different by Daylight

Christmas lights on Aleksanterinkatu.

Image via Wikipedia

Matthew 2:2 and asked, Where is the baby born to be the king of the Jews? We saw his star when it came up in the east, and we have come to worship him.

The trappings of the holiday season are all around.  Houses have been strung with dazzling displays of lights, wreaths, candles and whimsical moving characters encapsulated in snow globes with their own twinkling lights.  The spectacle  is nothing short of breathtaking.  I find myself riding along in awe.  Santa and his elves are in evidence everywhere, at night.

By the light of the morning sun it all looks, well pretty unremarkable. The cords, extension cords and clips cloaked by the cover of darkness are revealed.  Like sin it looks tantalizing when it is offered all shiny paper, sparkly dressed to entice and ensnare, but by the light of the Son, not so appealing. We must be ever vigilant to not be pulled in by the pageantry but to remember the reason for the Christmas season is to celebrate the birth of  Jesus, my Lord, Savior and King.

Making His praise glorious!

Ree

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The Celebration is just the Beginning

DSC_4081

Image by hunzas via Flickr

Romans 14:9  For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living.

It been two days since we celebrated the life of Mama Jean and the celebration has not ended!  What an incredible few days it has been.  The life celebration was full of family, extended family and friends all connected by the passing years and her phenomenal life.  Once the majority of the folks had departed the next generation of children and grandchildren remained.   We had a birthday in in the midst that had not yet been celebrated.   Just a few beats and the most melodious rendition of “Happy Birthday” was sung.   This family can sing!!!  At the  moment the mouths opened a glimpse of heaven was provided.  If these few voices are but a hint of the choir when Christ returns, oh glory!!!  It did not end there!  Yesterday at the house with Dad, the voices of Aunts, Grandfather and Uncle raised in song!  Though this journey  began as a celebration of life we continually and constantly celebrate the love and presence of God, in all things!

Making His praise glorious!

Ree

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Giving Gifts with Open Hands and Heart

Psalm 112:9  (NIV) They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor, their righteousness endures forever; their horn will be lifted high in honor.

The needles have been flying through projects lately as if there is some unforeseen deadline, other than Christmas, that must be made!  There has been a profound sense of peace, precision and purpose with each stitch of every project started and finished. Will I keep it or gift it? The plans change as each ball of yarn takes on a new and recognizable shape.  The more I give the more I receive, so the choice is transparently clear.  Though I had no clear idea what I was doing releasing my selfish ideas and choosing to follow where God leads me it is imperative that I open my hands and release those pieces to bring God glory.

Making His praise glorious!

Ree

Posted from WordPress for Windows Phone