Illumination

This past weekend was a grand Illumination for our neighborhood. Families put out luminaries in front of their homes and neighbors were out enjoying the lights!












I pray that as Chirst's lights we are "grandly illuminated" so that others feel the warmth and love of Christ just by being around us.






This Christmas.......
may we long to learn more about God and how much he loves us.














May we truly recieve the gift of the Christ child in our hearts this Christmas time and may we share this gift with all!












Matthew 5:14-16
"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."

Join me in singing "This Little Light of Mine"!

Peace Maker Mom

When thinking of a peace maker images of important world leaders who dedicate their whole lives to the prevention of wars come to my mind. Only after studying a passage in James with Mr P in our Sunday School class did I notice the important calling of a peace maker for me as a mom!



James 3:17-18

"But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness."



In our discussion we talked about who in our lives exhibitied the qualities of a peace maker. My husband mentioned moms and teachers of young children, as often disputes arise involving sharing of toys, taking turns, and learning to get along. He marvelled at the patience those who have dedicated their lives to daily working with children. Even though I find him to be extremely patient with our three, he more than once has said how amazed he is at my career as a mom!



Looking closer still at these verses I hope that as I help my young ones with their disputes, I encourage them to look at their siblings and peers with compassion and love; so that I will be raising "a harvest of righteousness" in these precious lives God is helping me lead.

Light One Candle For Peace

Tonight we lit the second candle on our Advent wreath, a candle for Peace.

Mary, when given a seemingly unbelievable assignment accepted the role God called her to play with peace. She was humble, not looking out for her own selfish ambitions, as she trusted in God to take care of the details. She was available to God to receive the call. She was not so caught up in the busyness of her life that she would miss it---even in the midst of planning a wedding!

She trusted in God and joyfully accepted even when the consequences for being an unwed girl with child during her time was quite severe. She gave over her worries and was given peace.

God grants us peace when we trust in Him. He longs for us to lay our concerns and worries at His feet so He can give us peace. May we like Mary humble ourselves, putting aside our own selfish ambitions and incessant busyness, so that we can receive this gift of peace.

Dear God,

May I give all of my worries to You. For with You nothing is impossible. May I clear my schedule each day prioritizing time with You, so that in this busy season I will receive Your peace.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Philippians 4:4-7

"May you always be joyful in your union with the Lord. I say it again: rejoice! Show a gentle attitude toward everyone. The Lord is coming soon. Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. And God's peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in the union with Christ Jesus."

Isaiah 9:6

"His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God. The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

Luke 1:46-49

"And Mary said: ' My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me-holy is his name."