Lovely presents. Lovingly wrapped. Unfortunately the week before Christmas my house was broken into and the presents conveniently packed in a large basket were among the items stolen. Along with  my laptop. With all my writing. And writers everywhere gasp in horror. It was difficult not to panic. The happy ending to the story  – the thieves were caught, our stolen items are found and being held for evidence. The Christmas gifts were returned just before Christmas. A traumatic week filled with meetings with state troopers, claim adjusters and the noise of power tools as my husband installed deadbolts and a security system. Throughout the ordeal there was a deep thankfulness in my heart. Things could have been so much worse. 

My image of Christmas adjusted quickly. The glitter and glitz disappeared. My home was violated. My possessions taken. Yet through it all, my constant thought and comfort. “They can take all the Christmas gifts but they can’t steal my Christmas. Because NO ONE can  steal Christ from my heart.”

Peace on earth, good will to men. Amen.

NOTE: I apologize for no post last Friday. I’m working on a borrowed laptop.  Winner of the Christmas dvd is Janice Garey. Happy New Year!

Christmas is not always a happy time. If you have lost a loved one around the holidays, there will be bittersweet memories accompanying your holiday journey. This is a time to draw closer to Jesus. Only He can understand our sorrows and the longing in our hearts to see our loved ones once again.

My mother went to be with the Lord several years ago, on a December day. Through the years I have discovered ways to still enjoy the holidays and not put a damper on the enthusiasm of others.

Are you involved in your church celebrations? My husband and I direct our choir and are heavily involved in our Christmas production. This helps to focus on a worthwhile project. And when visitors comment, “I was so tired of the Christmas hype, but this concert put it all back in perspective,” I am blessed. Are you alone with too much time to dwell on the past? Connect with others who are in need. Encourage someone else going through a difficult time. As we reach out to others, we also receive comfort.

I pray for those who are struggling – may God fill the loneliness in your heart with the beauty of His presence. He is the God of all Comfort. And He longs to embrace us and surround us with His love.                                                                                                  

May God bless your Christmas.

NOTE: Congrats to Julie Bihn, the winner of Two Tickets to the Christmas Ball. Please send me your address.

NEW DRAWING – for a dvd “Christmas Child,” a Max Lucado story. Leave a comment to enter. Winner announced next Friday, Dec. 23rd.

Simplicity in Christmas. In our cherished traditions. Our gift giving. And in our….Decor!

I’m sorting through my ornaments each year and trying to build up a collection of items that fit in with the Christmas story. After Christmas sales find me picking up lovely Nativity scenes and all types of angels. This season is a time to proclaim the love of God and the beauty of Jesus coming to earth to live among us.

I have stunning silver and gold stars which remind me of the beauty of the heavens. A golden snow globe on a pedestal that features a small manger scene inside. A carefully crafted nativity ornament, made in Bethlehem of Olive Wood. And angels in all shapes and forms that were given to me by different friends. One from a pastor friend. “This one reminds me of you,” she said with a smile. The angel is tall, blondish, blowing a trumpet. She has wings but I did notice she had no halo : )   

How do you keep the focus on Jesus through your decorations?

(Update: Extended deadline to win Donita Paul’s book,”Two Tickets to the Christmas Ball.”     

I need a total of ten names to choose from, including last post. And yes, you may enter more than once with a new comment.)