Well, another Christmas put in the history book of memories. Today and throughout the weekend, some may still be meeting with family or friends. The warm glow of the holiday spirit and sparkling, twinkling lights help us usher in a new year.

Today should be a day of reflection, a time to take notice of the people who care or cared about you. The beautiful note written in a Christmas card, the surprise plate of cookies from your neighbor, or a random thought or gift received by a casual co-worker. The unique gift from your partner that says, “I know you.” The surprise in the mailbox or on the front step you weren’t expecting that says, “I was thinking about you.” The phone call that says, “I’m missing you.”

All gestures of love, all gestures we should hold onto, carry in our hearts, and remember after the twinkle lights have gone out, the parties are over, and we are left with just the cold winds of winter.

Luke 2:8-19 NLT “That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior-yes the Messiah, the Lord-has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snuggly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.” Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others-the armies of heaven-praising God and saying, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger. After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. All who heard the shepherds’ story were astonished, but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often.”

Scripture just showed us that we should keep the good memories in our hearts and thoughts and to think of them often. I find it easy to keep a record of the wrongs and replay them repeatedly, but how much more wonderful and brighter would my world and outlook be if I kept a record of things cherished? Thoughts to ponder as we head into a new year.

I pray for you a blessed day and rest of 2020 and wonderful horizons for 2021. Thank you for joining me. 🥰

I started a Christmas tradition with my children when they were very young. On Christmas morning, we gathered in a circle on the front room floor, surrounded by toys, wrapping paper, and candy from the stockings to sing Happy Birthday to Jesus. So, even though my kids are now adults with their own children, the tradition continues.

Happy Birthday to you…

Happy Birthday to you…

Happy Birthday dear Jesus…

Happy Birthday to you…We Love you!!!

Isaiah 9:6-7a NKJV: For unto us a child is born, Unto us a Son is given; and the government will be on his shoulder. And his name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace, there will be no end, upon his throne of David and over his kingdom.”

Merry Christmas to you. I realize for many, it will be different this year due to the time and place our world is in but remember this. It’s Christmas, the day we received one of the greatest gifts given to man. I pray that if you find yourself alone today you will remember…You are never alone.

Be blessed on this Holy Day, and thank you for joining me. 🥰

Prophets foretold the birth of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament is fulfilled in the New Testament. One of the beautiful seasons where the Bible collides, the season we call Christmas.

OT- Isaiah 7:14: Here prophecy states a pure (virgin) young woman will give birth to God’s son.

NT – Matthew 1:18-23; You will read Isaiahs prophecy being fulfilled.

OT – Isaiah 9:6; Prophesies that Jesus Christ will come as a baby; the several names he will be known by.

OT – Micah 5:2; Tells us that Jesus will be born in Bethlehem.

NT – Matthew 2:4-6; The scribes knew that Bethlehem was the prophesied birthplace of the Messiah.

NT – Luke 2:4-7; Jesus is Born

NT – Matthew 2:2; A new star appeared in Israel.

Our Lord, Our King, was born to a poor young couple who suffered ridicule, judgment, gossip, and slander because of him. One day our young mother, who in her middle 30’s still very young in our times, watches her firstborn son give his life for you and me. As a woman of God, a woman, and a mother, Mary paid a horrendous price for the honor of serving God.

Consider this, Jesus was born poor, dirt poor! Why, because he didn’t miss anything we might experience while walking on earth. He understands poverty and manual labor, he was a carpenter by trade. Once again, there is nothing we can experience down here that we can’t take to him.

Last ponder; how do you react when the Lord asks something of you? Do you bow and humbly give him all you can, no matter the cost; friends, reputation, money, time, you yourself. OR, do you run grumbling as you go, sort of like Jonah?

The Lord has reasons for all he does even if we don’t understand them, such as Mary being nine months pregnant when the Caesar of Rome called for a census to be taken, causing Joseph and Mary a trek from Nazareth back to Bethlehem to register himself and his fiancé’. Mary was nine months pregnant; she probably wasn’t overly thrilled with the unexpected trip. Now God??? Yes, now, as what they didn’t realize was prophesy being fulfilled. So the next time God asked you to do something you don’t want to, remember this step leads you to the next one, steps that just might be taking you to the answer to your prayers.

Have a blessed Christmas Eve! Thank you for sharing your time with me this morning. 🥰 Merry Christmas!!!

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you have looked up and asked God, “Are You Sure?”

If your answer was yes, guess what, you aren’t alone. I pray about everything, and I mean everything. I have an ongoing conversation with the Lord all day long. I have a specific prayer that I call “my billboard prayer,” I use when needing to make a decision that will highly impact my life. In short, I am hoping for the answered prayer to be as loud and big as a billboard.

So, what happens when you get the billboard, the light is green, and it’s a go! I guess it’s easy to think it’s from God, it’s going to be great but then it isn’t, wait, it wasn’t supposed to be like this. I asked, you gave the go ahead and now it feels all wrong. Did I miss something? Did I hear incorrectly? Maybe, Maybe Not!!! God knows!!!

To trust in him means precisely that, to trust. We need to remember that we only see the moment we are in; God sees our tomorrow and the many that will follow.

Coming up on twenty years, I was a new bride in a new city, a metropolis compared to the small country town where I grew up. I responded to a little black and white advertisement in the local newspaper for a customer service representative. I secured the position and grew within the company. Three years go by, and my husband was promoted within his company, and we were being transferred. The long and short of this is, God sent me to this company because thirteen years and three transfers later, I had a job. I had no way of knowing the day I applied for the CS Position that I would be blessed with not having to start over career-wise every time my husband was promoted and relocated. God knew!!!

In life, we will have many seasons, some warm and balmy, some torrid and rocky. I am sure of one thing though if God brings me to it, He will bring me through it, and I can only see the moment, and even though it might not make any sense now. God knows!!!

Jeremiah 29:11 NIV “For I know the plans I have for you’, says the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Romans 8:28 ESV “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

I hope, as like me, the next time the season blows in a cold frigid storm that stops you in your tracks, distorts your vision, and causes you to look around and up in bewilderment, you will keep walking because you know! God knows!!!

Be Blessed today, Be a Blessing and thank you for joining me. 🥰

What child is this who laid to rest. On Mary’s lap is sleeping. Whom angels greet with anthems sweet. While shepherds watch is keeping.

This, this is Christ the King. Whom shepherds guard and angels sing. Haste, haste to bring him, Lord. The babe, the son of Mary.

Why lies He in such mean estate? Where ox and ass are feeding. Good Christians, fear, for sinners here. The silent word is pleading.

Nails, spear shall pierce Him through, the cross be borne for me, for you. Hail, hail the Word made flesh. The babe, the son of Mary.

So bring him incense, gold and myrrh. Come peasant, king to own Him. The King of kings salvation brings. Let loving heart enthrone him.

Raise, raise a song on high. The virgin sings her lullaby. Joy, joy for Christ is born. The babe, the son of Mary.

Christmas Prayer; My dear Lord, I come before you this Christmas Season. I am a sinner and broken. I humbly bow before you and ask for the most beautiful gift ever offered, and that is the gift of life through your son. I ask you, Lord Jesus, to come into my heart. Fill me full of your light and love. Forgive me of my sins and teach me to walk in and with you every day on this earth and eternity with you in Heaven. Father God, I recognize the sacrificial gift you made for us. It wasn’t wrapped in sparkling gold paper adorned with a big red bow. It was the gift of your son’s blood that washes us clean. Thank you for your love and all the daily blessings you bestow that half the time I don’t even notice. Help me to notice. In your glorious name, I pray, Amen.

If you just prayed this prayer, welcome to the family. God’s family, I think you’ll like it here. Go out and be blessed and be a blessing, and thank you as always for joining me. 🥰

(Songwriters: Ward Lamar Swingle / William C. Dix / DP) What Child isnThis? Lyrics copywriter Reservoir Music, Jesse Belle Denver, Coniff Music, Drolet Music, Bmg Ruby Songs, Bmg Rights Management (Ireland), Ltd., Bibo Music Publishing, Inc., Editions Musicales Tutti Intersong Sarl.)

Deuteronomy 15:11 NCV “There will always be poor people in the land, so I command you to give freely to your neighbors and to the poor and needy in your land.”

Sadly, there is a great need every day, but in general, we are more aware during the Christmas Season. I believe it’s the air; there is a unique feel that encompasses the month of December. Why? It’s because we celebrate the greatest gift of mankind. The beautiful gift of our Lord Jesus Christ. His spirit can be felt stronger; the music reminds us to be kind, family and friends, laughter, love, joy, and merriment. Crisp frozen snow rides to grandmas house we go, sleigh bells ringing, what a beautiful night!

Or is it? I also know Christmas can bring stress, worry, sadness, and makes being alone scream that much louder. I dislike the saying, past down through the years, “if you’re bad, Santa won’t bring you anything!” As a single mother of three, that simple line used to turn me inside out, fearing my children would think they were bad when the truth was mom was stretched beyond her means. Since the world is gung-ho on tearing down anything historical, let’s tear down that phrase. Please!!!

So, as a mother who used to get on her knees every year and pray for a blessed Christmas for her babies, who was blessed by the Lord each year. I would like to recognize those who carry the spirit of Christmas.

Thank you to the many churches, organizations and businesses that collect toys for underprivileged children in their area. The firemen and police officers who work tirelessly not only collecting toys but grandly delivering them. To all of you with extra means who take an angel or two off the tree of giving, and those who adopt families that help struggling parents provide joy on Christmas morning. The relief providers, the smile givers…

A special thank you to the many food banks and kitchens, who works year round making sure those who are hungry aren’t forgotten. The cooks behind the scenes who get up in the wee hours to start preparing for the hundreds that will pass through, empty plate in hand, so very thankful for the hot meal and a kind face. The school cafeteria staff still provide morning and afternoon meals daily for children who don’t have enough. The relief providers, the smile givers…

Most people in need don’t walk around with a cardboard sign, and it’s up to us to watch, pay attention, tune in to something other than ourselves and our agendas. The clues are there; I hope if you see one, you will do something. Our world is in a place we’ve never experienced, and we all feel a bit lost and slightly confused. The future feels scarier than it ever has, and there is so much need.

Thank you to all who recognize and step up to do something about it. May the Lord bless and keep you.

Be blessed and be a blessing! Thank you for joining me this morning. 🥰

Isaiah 9:6-7 NLT “ For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. He will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of the ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the Lord of heaven’s Armies will make it happen!”

Isaiah’s scripture comes from the Old Testament, so that was a prophecy being spoken and recorded. Matthew is the first book in the New Testament and is the book that truly ushers Jesus Christ onto the scene. Please read Matthew 1 for the entire list of Jesus’ lineage, but I have listed a few that might be recognized.

Matthew 1:2 NLT “Abraham was the father of Issac. Issac was the father of Jacob. Jacob was the father of Judah and his brothers.” 1:5b “Boaz was the father of Obed (whose mother was Ruth). Obed was the father of Jesse.” 1:6 “Jesse was the father of King David. David was the father of Solomon (whose mother was Bathsheba, the widow of Uriah).” Many generations later, 1:15b “Matthan was the father of Jacob.” 1:16 “Jacob* was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Mary gave birth to Jesus, who is called Messiah.” (Messiah: Hebrew: Anointed) *Jacob father of Joseph is a different man then Jacob the father of Judah)

Jesus is referred to as the Lion of Judah. His lineage is from the line (tribe) of Judah, one of Jacob’s twelve sons. How did the actual name derive? Well, as Jacob was dying, he separately blessed each of his sons. Here is Judah’s blessing.

Genesis 48:9-10 NLT “ Judah, my son, is a young lion that has finished eating its prey. Like a lion he crouches and lies down; like a lioness – who dares to rouse him? The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from his descendants, until the coming of the one to whom it belongs, the one whom all nations will honor.”

Matthew 1:17 NLT “ all those listed above* include 14 generations from Abraham to David, 14 from David to the Babylonian exile, and 14 from the Babylonian exile to the Messiah.” *I did not list all of the generations here)

Matthew 28:18-20 NLT “Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Matthew, chapter 28 is last for this book, so from the beginning, where we learn of his lineage, hear the scepter and rule will never leave Judah. To, Jesus our Messiah, our Salvation, born of this tribe. Once again, the Old Testament leading its way into the New and assuring us that in his hands, we are secure, Forever!

Be blessed today and be a blessing. Thank you for joining me this day. 🥰 its Sunday ❤️

Have you given thought to the fact that the God of the universe knows you? Have you went to the depth of your heart and realized the Love God has for you? If you could walk up to Jesus today, he would say hello (your name) and open his arms for the best hug ever!

The book of Genesis tells of God creating the earth full of heavens beauty. In the Garden of Eden were trees, plants, fruits, waterfalls, birds, and flowers in every color of the spectrum. The gospels in the New Testament tell us of God sending us his Son, Him, in human form to the earth and people he created.

Human form! God had all the earthly limitations we have; he couldn’t fly, transport, or twitch his nose to make something happen. He lived just as you and I do.

He was a baby, a toddler, a youth, a teenager, a young man, a son, and a brother. He felt warmth and cold, love, and rejection. He got hungry, tired, sad, mad, and frustrated with the people around him. He laughed, joked, had fun with his friends, enjoyed the innocence of children, and respected the elders.

He was a teacher, an example, a friend. He was a mother’s pride and joy and the first step-son to a very honorable man, father, and role model. He learned beside his parents as we did, played with other boys after chores, yep had chores too! Did required schoolwork or, more so, the learning of Torah and Talmud. He had responsibilities just as we do.

In this life, we experience times of grief and heartbreak. We suffer trials that often leave us numb and speechless. There are no words that come close to the pain, depth of despair, or fear. He hears your heart and tears. Usually, all we can do is look up, shake our heads, and just sit in his presence. He understands; he’s been there himself. Please, just sit with him. Even being silent in his presence is comforting.

Or, when we are trying to express the depth of our love for him, our thankfulness for all he is in our lives, the amazement we feel when we receive him in our hearts—the utter speechlessness at one of His mighty blessings or answered prayers. When we look at the beauty around us and feel it vibrate within our spirit with no words that feel adequate, He knows. He’s been here; he’s felt it!!!

Go out today and every day knowing that you know; you are loved, understood, and never alone. Stop and take a look around at the beauty we often take for granted; let it bless your soul. Have a fantastic day and as always, Thank you for joining me. 🥰

Labels, we see them everywhere. We have labels that show pictures of items within. We have designer labels, who’s name you wear or carry. We have labels of brands of excellence and those tagged not worthy. We have labels that are so familiar; we don’t even need to read the product name. It is…

Then there are the labels we put on others; she is funny, he is bald, they are poor, they are rich, they are drunks, gossips, church people. They are…

Then there are the labels we put on ourselves; I am fat, old, stupid, too sick, too lazy. I have always been this way; I will always be this way! I’ve made too many mistakes. I’m never going to get out of this hole. I’m just a loser. I’m tired of trying. It’ll never change. I am…

Then there are Gods labels; more then a conqueror (Romans 8:37), a child of the most high (Galatians 3:26-29), we are favored ( Psalms 84:11), we are blessed (2 Corinthians 9:8), Ephesians 2:10 NCV”. “ for we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared before hand, that we should walk in them.” We are…

Here are some very influential names from the Bible and they came from mothers who were “labeled” barren: Issac, Jacob, Samson, Samuel the prophet and John the Baptist. Why are these men even here? Their mothers couldn’t have children. Why? Because they never gave up, never ceased praying for their change, always believed that the Lord could and would make the changes necessary. That he would hear their prayers and honor their faith. They prayed without ceasing. Hannah, Samuels mother, was praying so hard in the Synagogue that the Rabbi accused her of being drunk!

God, did hear and answer the heartfelt prayers of these women and he will hear yours too! Whatever label that has attached itself to you or you’ve put on yourself. Talk to God, ask him to help you, see yourself through his eyes. That’s a beautiful sight, after all He created you and me in his image! (Genesis 1:27)

Go out today with a new view of yourself, you are beautiful and wonderfully made. Listen to Gods report not mans. Be blessed, Be a blessing and thank you as always for joining me.🥰

Matthew 2:1-2 NCV “Jesus was born in the town of Bethlehem in Judea during the time when Herod was king. When Jesus was born, some wise men from the east came to Jerusalem. They asked, “Where is the baby who was born to be the king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him”

Side note; King Herod ruled over the Roman Empire with an iron fist. He is recorded as a power hungry ruler who destroyed anyone he regarded as a threat to him or his throne. Along with his power came jealous greed for complete control. He was the King, and all would know and honor him,

Then three kings from afar show up to honor a baby king! A King of the Jews. What!!!

Matthew 2:4-6 NCV “Herod called a meeting of all the leading priests and teachers of the law and asked them where the Christ would be born? They answered, “In the town of Bethlehem in Judea. The prophet wrote about this in scriptures: ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are not just an insignificant village in Judah. A ruler will come from you who will be like a shepherd for my people Israel.”

Within this scripture we read “the prophet wrote” that prophet was Micah. Micah 5:2 NCV “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are to small to be among the army groups from Judah, from you will come one who will rule Israel for me. He comes from very old times, from days long ago.”

The book of Micah was written somewhere between 687-742 BC. It is believed that the gospel of Matthew was written in the vicinity of 30 AD. There are around 700 years from when Micah prophesied over Bethlehem, and our Jesus, our King, was born.

I love when I can cross-reference Old Testament prophesy with New Testament revelations and the fulfillments. A little more of the Christmas story to be shared. I hope you enjoyed it. Be blessed today, Be a Blessing, and Thank you for joining me. 🥰