“What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? Luke 15: 4

As we step toward another year, we mustn’t squander the time God gives us to WAIT with grateful anticipation for what’s to come. On the doorstep of Christmas, God is preparing us to welcome the GOOD SHEPHERD and receive the offering of His amazing LOVE.     

God sent Jesus to SAVE us and bring salvation through His Son. He left the comfort of heaven to reveal His will and provide HOPE for each one of us. He longs for us to walk in FAITH and step where He wants us to go, held in the heart of His holiness. 

For many, this has been a season of uncertainty. Difficult days have robbed the JOY that was meant for our souls. But in times of despair, Jesus has always been ready to carry the load. He knows the heart of those who pray with love for His faithfulness. 

God provides STRENGTH to bravely let go and welcome needed PEACE. He invites us to come as we are and experience the humility of surrender. Jesus came to lead us through darkness and save those who are lost. He reminds us why we're never too far away from being found.

Jesus arrived in a stable not fit for a King. His birth brought excitement for those who welcomed the Son of God! We too, should receive Him like shepherds who cared for their sheep with a willingness to keep them safe and held on the path to follow. 

This is a season to open our eyes and reflect on the goodness of God. HE is the One who guides, provides and helps us find what we NEED on the journey. Our lives will never be the same if we choose to leave doubt behind and experience freedom in TRUSTING GOD. 

Let’s live like the shepherds who heard the good news and discover the way to find Christmas calm. “God chose just the right people to share His news because these humble men did exactly what He wanted them to do. God calls us to spread the good news as well.”

Jesus left 99 sheep to find 1 who was lost. Surely, He will take care of us as we begin to understand life will be so much easier if we faithfully follow Him. Christ WILL help us remain tethered to the compassion of His LOVE. God IS WITH US! We mustn’t be afraid when He lifts us with purpose to see glimpses of GOOD and return us back where we belong. 

God’s will was fulfilled through our Savior. It’s time to discover the power of His authority to do what needs to be done to walk on the path toward wholeness and embrace the PEACE of a grateful heart. The JOY of the Lord IS our STRENGTH. ♥

Dear God, we’re so grateful for the love of our Good Shepherd. Humble our hearts to recognize HE is the way, the truth and the life. Thank you for Jesus and His power to save. Renew our hearts and give us PEACE that passes all understanding when we are faced with challenges. Thank you for finding us when we need to be rescued. We will find comfort in the arms of Your STRENGTH and remember HOPE came to heal when Jesus was born. Thank you, Lord! Thank you for JOY which comes from loving YOU and thank you for the JOY of CHRISTMAS. Amen