December Dash

Oh yeah! You know what I'm talking about. December is the best time of the year for the obvious reasons. It's a great family time. It's a great time to be in a church family as well. But, it is always so busy. Too busy. There is so much going on that we kill ourselves with stuff. Getting ready for Christmas, closing down business or school, it all is so hectic.

Here's what I am commanding each of you (and me) to do. Take at least 10 minutes everyday between now and Christmas to sit in front of your Christmas tree, small or large, and stare. Ponder your blessings. Ponder your friends and family. Ponder what happened to you that made you what you are this year. How did you get here? Who made a difference in your life?

Finally, think about the greatest gift of all. (you knew I'd get around to Jesus). Ponder the words of the 3rd verse of Hark the Herald Angels Sing.

Hail the heaven born Prince of Peace! Hail the Sun of Righteousness
Light and life to all He brings. Risen with healing in His wings
Mild He lays His glory by, born that man no more may die
Born to raise the sons of earth, born to give them second birth
Hark the Herald Angels sing, "Glory to the new-born King!

I was struck by this verse last night while Diane and I were leading some carols at a party for E3 Partners, a missions organization we are in partnership with. Look at the third line. "Mild He lays His glory by." Christ chose to leave heaven, chose to give up the glory, chose instead to come to this earth...for me! I'm not worth it! But that's what makes it "Amazing Grace." I'll never understand it. I'll never deserve it. I'll never get over it.

Thank you God that You thought enough of me to leave the wealth of heaven and chose the filth of earth to show me that You love me.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Chris

p.s. Stephen, Jen and Elizabeth are coming for Christmas. YEA!!!!!