She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them. Luke 2: 7 NLT

God prepares us for Christmas. He opens our hearts so we will welcome Jesus. Oh, how we need to be reminded HOPE came to heal when HE was born. Oh, how we need to honor Him with our love and RECEIVE the gift of His greatness. 

The King of Kings did NOT enter the world in a palace. He was born in crude surroundings. A manger held God’s Son. It provided space to hold the One who was sent to bring us PEACE. 

Sometimes we forget; in humble spaces of the heart God places sweet desire to seek the Savior. He helps us understand surrender and welcome Christmas calm. 

Jesus brought light to the darkness. He longs to guide us to the Father and help us remember things don’t have to be perfect when we call on Him. Imagine Mary, delivering her baby in a stable! Surely, it wasn't where she thought He would be born. 

God doesn’t promise life will always be easy. But because of Christ, we have the ability to welcome the promise of salvation and remember where HOPE is found. We have the opportunity to witness JOY, as we focus on Jesus and find reasons to be grateful for His love. 

PEACE came from the breath of heaven. It is offered to those who choose to RECEIVE. Jesus was held in the arms of Mary and He holds us in the promise of God's love.        

Christ will help us discover JOY in our relationship with Him. He will open our hearts for gratitude as we welcome His greatest gift and remember why HE is deserving of ALL of our LOVE. 

Dear God, thank you for sending JESUS for each one of us. Help us RECEIVE Him with gratitude and TRUST. Help us welcome His PEACE and recognize the power of Your STRENGTH. We will remember Christmas welcomes the healing of HOPE and be reminded who came to save. Thank you for Christmas! Thank you for Jesus! Thank you for what happens when we humble our hearts for LOVE. Amen