Image via AS Phillips
The journey of a lifetime
This week, I’ve watched a young Jewish maiden and her hubby, travel about 90 miles from their home to Bethlehem, with no car!
I watched some shepherds shaking in their sandals, while an angel apprised them of being some of the first to attend a meet-n-greet, hosted by Joseph and Mary in a stable of all places!
There, they found the promise of Isaiah, the Lion of Judah, swaddled and resting in a manger.
The Light of the World was born in a barn and slept in hay!
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| Joseph (Eli), Mary (Reagan), Angel Messenger (Olivia) |
Image via Kaitlyn Parker
I watched some folks (who can’t care for themselves) break into big smiles, hugs and handshakes. They joined with strangers to sing songs about Christmas and receive tiny gifts as if they were royal presentations.
As always, the joy of the Best Gift Ever flowed through all of us, even those enduring the challenges of missing loved ones, physical discomfort, loss of freedom and limited physical abilities...
Things get exciting when even just a few of us get together to celebrate Him.
He changes people in the most wonderful of ways!
I watched shy kids, I met only a few months back, bloom and blossom as they shook hands with strangers and introduced themselves. Doesn’t sound like a big thing but trust me, it’s a YUUGEE thing!
Right now, even as you’re reading this, around the world, groups are assembling, big and small to celebrate and experience the joy produced by that same baby boy–the one born in a Bethlehem stable, over two thousand years ago. I know... He amazes me too, every day, all year long!
All for what?
He’s the most famous person there ever was. He’s still making heart-bells ring and voices lift in songs to share His message of peace on earth and goodwill to mankind. That’s what He was born for, lived for, died for and was raised from the dead for, ascended to Heaven for and returned in Spirit to dwell in those who would let Him sweep them off their feet and take up residence in their heart.
He did all that for us. All for YOU! (Yeah, go ahead and get your praise on. If you know, you know!)
He did it for me.
He’ll do it for you, too, if He hasn’t already.
For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder.And His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.Isaiah 9:6(King James Version)
Launching prayers
This Christmas, Israel and her people (all over the world) are near to my heart, in my thoughts and consistent prayers for the Lord to cover her in His endless grace and mercy. I'm also mindful of those who'll be spending their first Christmas without others dear to their hearts.
It's also a most important time of the year to remember, that family isn't only defined by blood. Just sayin'...
The wrap!
It's also a most important time of the year to remember, that family isn't only defined by blood. Just sayin'...
The wrap!
I pray this Christmas overflows with blessings for you, and if you’re not already acquainted with Him, that He’ll show up and show out so you can get to know Him, too!
You’ll know when it happens. His presence is unique, and indescribably, wonderful–perfection in every aspect. If you’ll allow it, and trust Him, the King of kings will encompass you with a greater love than you’ve ever dreamed possible!
It’s all about Him, and He really is, All That!
