Christmas Thoughts

It is Christmas Time!! Even though the ground does not have snow and it is so mild out, you can tell it is Christmas time. There is a presence in the air that says this time of year is different.  I watch as people give to our shelter to ensure that the women and children who are experiencing hard times this season, know that they are cared for and matter. There is an excitement as we get ready to come together with family. Our girl comes home in 3 days!! There are parties to go too.
  All of this is great and I love it, but I think for this year I needed a much needed reminder that God is with us. I love that the Christmas carols are on. Good to hear that Christmas is about God is with us. Emmanuel did come, and He is still with us today. I was on my way to work on Saturday and I put in old c.d. On came Amy Grant's God is with us. Such a beautiful song. The chorus states:
God is in us
God is for us
God is with, our Emmanuel.

So often we can go about life and wonder where is God is all of it? Is He really for us? Yes He is. I have seen God in our own little family. Things that others may call coincidences I call God moments.  The right people in our world at the right time. The scripture in devotions that I needed for that day to help me keep having hope and reminding me to love. That God loves my people even more than me and He will help me have the patience and love I need.  We are reminded this season that love, grace , mercy and forgiveness is so important for our own hearts as well the hearts of people we come in contact with daily.

 I am grateful this season that my boy is home,  making better choices and that I have seen God's hand in His world. Will keep praying!! Grateful my girl is nearly done university and I see her making good choices. Will keep praying also for her future.  I am grateful for family that supports us continually. For my amazing hubby.  Trying to trust that my God is for me and I need not fear the future. ( some days easier than others)

I realise that Christmas is hard for many. My heart goes out to those who have lost loved ones, for those that may not have family support. For those that are going through sickness with loved ones and may not have that child at home this year. It is harder to see God in these times, but He is there.

I think it is our responsibility to make sure people are not alone at Christmas. Open your home up. If you have family, share them.

This year the Loner house is having soup and turkey sandwiches on all day Christmas Day. All are welcome. We may be in our pjs when you come, but that's okay. You can wear yours too!!

Wherever you are on your journey this Christmas, remember God is with us, He is for us!