A Wish, A Prayer

This year has moved so quickly.  There are so many things that have happened in my life ... so many little moments that have changed me.  And I would be lying if I didn't say that writing here on this blog has had a part in that change.

Christmas. Not just another holiday but a time to reflect on what is most important in life.  My family, my friends, my health... but more important than all of that... Jesus Christ.  The shining star and morning light.  He is and has always been the dawn of my life. And knowing what He did for us by becoming flesh and suffering death in our place fills my heart with gratefulness.

I don't deserve His love or mercy.  But He didn't do it because I deserved it.

The other night I was sitting in the living room talking with my mother.  To my right was the glow of the Christmas tree.  We had decorated it with blue lights and blue ornaments.  And the ribbons swirled around it, glittering like fine star dust.  A surreal atmosphere of calm.

We talked about many things, my mother and I.   And the thought occurred to me that I really didn't want anything for Christmas.  Actually I hadn't desired any Christmas gifts for several years now.  What I was doing, talking with my mother, seeing her healthy and content, that was all I really wanted.  I love my parents so much.  I want them to be safe and healthy and happy.  And this year they are and that's enough for me.

Christmas is a time for giving.  And although wrapping presents is fun it isn't the giving of things that people remember the most but the quality of our time.

 And as I reflected on that I wondered what to give my family. And then I wondered what I wanted to give God. I certainly don't have anything He needs. And then I realized that He has already shared what He wants from each of us.  And in an instant I realized that I want my life to be a gift to God.  I want every moment, as many as I can offer, to be a form of worship to Him.  I want every thought to be a reflection on His character and goodness, every act an extension of his love towards others.  But already I know that I will fail.  I can't do those things without His help.

So I prayed and wished that this coming year might find me wiser, stronger, and more in love with Him.  I want to study His word more deeply, I want to share more with others, I want to spend more time doing things that have eternal value.

" Lord, let me know my end, and what is the measure of my days;

Let me know how fleeting my life is.

You have made my days a few handbreadths,

and my lifetime is as nothing in your sight.

Surely everyone stands as a mere breath.  Selah."

Psalm 39: 4&5 

This Christmas give of yourself.  Take the time to listen to others, offer to help, be more patient, love, love, love.  And as you do may God show you more of who He is.  May you grow in grace and steadiness of heart and mind.