I am sitting here listening to the radio, and a song comes on called “Season of Love.” I hope we all remember that this time of year is truly all about love. Not just a love of presents and gifts, although we sure do love that! Its about love for family, love for friends, love for those less fortunate, love for those that we meet out in the stores, and most importantly the love for Jesus Christ.

 Love for family…

Family

 This holiday season spend extra time with your family. Sometimes we may dread going to a certain family members home, or spending time with certain people.. But what if it was one of your family members last Christmas? Life is such a precious gift, and I have learned this year to never take anything for granted. A car accident, a disease, a disaster can take the life of someone so quickly. So thank God everyday for your family, pray for their protection, and let them know how much you love them every chance you get!

  Love for friends…

Friends

 Have you told your friends how much you appreciate them lately? Even if you are not that close to them, make sure they know that you are there for them. Don’t take any friend for granted. One of my good friends told me “Faces we see, hearts we don’t know.” There are many friends that you will see on a regular basis, do the exchange of “hello, how are you, we should hang out…” and they may have a situation going on in their life that is in desperate need of prayer, love, and support.
 This year, we lost a really good friend to cancer. Their family is very close to me, and every time I see them, I still think, “Oh, Patrick must be out of town on work”. It still has not completely sank in that I won’t see him again until we get to Heaven. I would have never thought that after just a few short months of learning he had cancer, that we would not see him during Christmas this year. Remember to thank God for your friends, don’t take them for granted, and pray for those that are suffering a loss this  year. I pray daily for Patrick’s wife and children. I pray they have a wonderful holiday season and it is filled with laughter, peace, and wonderful Christmas memories.

 Love for those less fortunate…

Less Fortunate

 Have you taken time this year to help out someone that needs you? So many people this year don’t have the blessings that many of us take for granted. A huge Christmas feast, numerous presents under the tree, warm clothes and blankets. All of these things many of us just know will always be there. Have you prayed for those that aren’t able to celebrate Christmas this year? Remember to pray for them, even if you don’t know who they are. And if you can, drop some change in the Salvation Army box, bring some blankets to the homeless, or more if you are able! Not only will you bring joy to someone down the road, but you will bring joy to your own life.

 Love for those we meet in the stores…

At the Store…

  One of my New Years Resolutions this year is to make sure I stop and greet, and if possible, have a conversation with every cashier that I purchase something from this year. I have noticed that every time I do, it seems to make them happier, and it makes me feel better. Instead of just thanking them and leaving, talking to them, and who knows, maybe one day you’ll be able to witness as well. Just be more friendly to strangers!
   So that’s my goal. Nothing crazy, or dangerous. ;) But just a smile to a stranger I pass by, or a compliment on a lady’s scarf… something to make people feel better, and in turn, it makes my day better too! This is hard to remember to do, especially if you’re having a bad day, but on days that I have done it when my day is horrible, this seems to help.

 Love for Jesus Christ…

Thanks, Jesus

 I have to remind myself all the time… The true reason for this huge celebration my family has is Jesus. The one who made this whole thing possible. Without Him I wouldn’t be here, my life would be meaningless, and I would be lost. I am so grateful that I am fortunate enough to have grown up in a family that believes in Jesus. I am so thankful for my parents, who raised me in church and encouraged me to develop my own relationship with Him.

 Thank you, God.  I am unable to comprehend how you could do such an amazing sacrifice. Thank you for coming to Earth just for us! Forgive me for being so selfish at times, and help me to be more like you. You are truly the greatest example there will ever be in selflessness. Help me to be more aware, and grateful for everything and everyone I have. Happy Birthday, Jesus, I love you so much.

Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you have a wonderful time celebrating with friends and family, and don’t forget to tell Jesus, Happy Birthday.