Welcome December!

It is official, December is here and we have fully entered the holiday season. Innumerable countdowns begin, gifts are carefully selected, lists are being crossed off, and people are shuffling in and out of the hustle and bustle of life. Thanksgiving has become more of a pre-Christmas entity rather than a time of praise and worship to the almighty God for the wonderful things He has done.

As we enter stores, we spot holiday decor and displays to guide our thoughts toward purchasing the latest goods and gadgets, most of which we could probably do without. Many people dread each passing day because their to-do lists stretch beyond their ability or their means. The hype of the holiday season sometimes causes us to lose focus of the true meaning of the season. If we are choosing to celebrate Christmas as a commemorative memorial to recognize the birth of Jesus, then, I suggest a different approach. Why not slow down this month?

• Take a few moments each day to reflect on your family's values for the holiday.
• Decide to keep Christ in the season by sharing the good news of Jesus with someone you meet while preparing for the holiday.
• Pray for someone whose resources are limited this time of year.
• Add "God bless you" to your Christmas cards.
• Hang a cross as an ornament on your Christmas tree.
• Write your favorite Bible story on pretty paper, wrap it as a gift, and give it to someone on your gift list.
• Praise God for the greatest gift of love ever given, Jesus!

Welcome every opportunity you have to worship God because not everyone has such a blessing!

Be Blessed!!!