Let us keep looking to JESUS. He is the One who started this journey of faith. And He is the one who completes the journey of faith. He paid no attention to the shame of the cross. He suffered there because of the joy he was looking forward to. Then he sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2 NIRV

PEACE separates us from the struggles of life. As we learn to release our stress, we witness how it feels to be held by the Father and blessed in the timing of His love. God wants us to feel the JOY of Jesus EVERY day of our lives. He longs for us to recognize the reward of welcoming His presence.   

As we learn to TRUST, Christ helps us find balance in our lives. He opens our hearts in truth, so we will clearly see what’s missing and allow Him to be our guide. He sets the stage for good to come, when we choose to faithfully follow. And He helps us remember we don’t have to handle life on our own.  

There’s a lot to be seen when we take time to notice the GIFTS of God’s greatness. Simple blessings bring the greatest JOY; a grateful heart, the awe of creation, the thoughtful gestures of family and friends and knowing we are treasured and loved. These are the things that nurture our souls as we walk on paths unknown.     

The Bible says, “The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song.” Psalm 28:7 Oh, what beautiful words to remember! 

This is a season of opportunity to examine our hearts and consider WHY we need the Savior. Now more than ever, we need remember we don’t have to handle life on our own.  Jesus came to bring light to the darkness and bandage our wounds. He came to lead us to The Father who offers the gift of eternal life.  He longs for us to make room in our hearts and leave our troubles behind. 

“The joy of the Lord is our strength.” He is offering His presence of fullness. Ask and you will receive what God is ready to give, as you make room for Jesus. “Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your JOY may be full. John 16: 24 ESV

Dear God, thank you for Christmas and helping us FEEL the love of our Savior in so many ways. What a blessing it is to witness the power of mercy, grace and PEACE in His presence. Thank you for humbling our hearts and helping us find Christmas JOY at  EVERY day of our lives. We will praise You in ALL circumstances and open our hearts to make room for what we need the most; the fullness of our Savior who came to bring us HOPE. Thank you, Lord. From the bottom of our hearts, we say, "Thank you, so very much!"  Amen