A Christmas Wish.........

Good Christmas Eve morning everyone!
I wanted to stop in today and let you know that I'll be taking a few days off from work and my blog as well so I can enjoy the holiday season with my family. I'll be back to regular posting next Thursday.

As I was reading my devotion this morning during my quiet time, I came across part of a story I'd like to share with you all as my Christmas wish for you and your family.
"The girls tore into their presents with squeals of delight. "Oh, Mom, I love this! Thank you!" said Abby, our oldest daughter.
"Here Mommy, take this out of the package, please!" said Hannah, our youngest.
After everything was unwrapped, we had our special Christmas morning breakfast. And then everyone had some free time before we left to celebrate with other family members.
That's when I felt it; the Christmas Day ache. Have you ever felt it? After weeks of secrets and excitement, decorating and baking, shopping and planning, I felt a tiny spark of wanting. It wasn't about the presents. Instead, the glitter of the season, the high expectations set by advertisers, the music, the parties all combined to leave me with a longing.

I let the longing lead me to worship the Baby in the manger, just like the shepherds did so long ago. In Luke 2:15, after the angels made their stunning appearance and shared the glorious news of the birth, the shepherds said to themselves: "Let's go.....and see." After they found Jesus and worshipped Him, they went into the village and told everyone what they had seen.
And so, like the shepherds, He bids me: Go and see. Go and tell. "

Reading this story has reminded me to share with you the best news of all time, the greatest Christmas gift ever given:

At this Christmas season, let's try to remember that real love isn't found in a brand new car, parked in the driveway and gift-wrapped with a bow. Real joy isn't found in a diamond ring from a store. Real peace isn't found in the glitter and sparkle of the season. All of these things leave us wanting. Instead, our pangs of longing, our ache for real love, real peace and real joy are satisfied only in Jesus.
Let your Christmas longings bring you to the Baby in the manger and the saving grace that only a relationship with Him can offer.
Go and see, then go and tell. And all who hear will be amazed.
He is the best gift of all!

From my family to yours -

we wish you a Christ-filled season of love, joy and peace!
Merry Christmas
from the Merriman Family!

~~Robin