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

Jesus separates us from the struggles of life and carries burdens. He lovingly takes what isn't ours to hold. He helps us witness HOW it feels to be held by the Father and rewarded by the goodness of His LOVE. God wants us to experience JOY in our lives and RECEIVE the PEACE of Jesus. 

As we learn to TRUST, Christ opens eyes, so we will SEE what is missing and allow Him to be our guide. He sets the stage for what’s to come as we pray, soak in His WORD and make room to RECEIVE Him. He helps us find balance in our lives as we remain faithful and accept the GIFT of amazing grace. 

There’s a lot to be seen when we take time to notice gifts of greatness. Simple blessings welcome JOY; a grateful heart, the awe of creation, thoughtful gestures of family and friends and release of our need to have control. These are the things that nurture our souls as we walk on paths unknown and FEEL the LOVE of Jesus. 

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 lives, draw closer to Christ and experience what we've never felt before; a deeper appreciation for our faithful FRIEND and a willingness to GIVE Him our hearts. The One who holds what we surrender will have room to grow our strength and we WILL find PEACE to welcome JOY forever. 

“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 beautiful 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 welcome the JOY of Jesus. We will praise You 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 gratefully say, "Thank you, so very much!"  Amen