Therefore, God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 9-11 NIV 

This is the time of the year life brings hectic holiday fun. We schedule many activities before Christmas comes, but sadly forget to prepare our hearts for Jesus and welcome the presence of calm and PEACE. 

December should welcome JOY and provide moments to reflect on the birth of Jesus. God’s will was fulfilled when He came to earth longing for us to embrace the goodness of our Father’s LOVE.   

The holiday season is so much more than finding perfect gifts and exhausting ourselves with high expectations. God opens our eyes to witness the gifts of His greatness and consider what He purposefully provides. 

His GIFT to the world isn’t tied with a bow or wrapped in the finest paper. We are invited to wrap ourselves in HOPE that was given when Jesus came to bring light to our lives. He is the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIFE. He is worthy of LOVE and ADORATION. 

As God humbles our hearts in ways we never imagined, we begin to understand HIS GIFT isn’t meant for just one day. It is the continued renewal of our hearts and a willingness to come as we are, surrender to Him and let PEACE fill our souls with Christmas calm. 

We should welcome this month with a longing to RECEIVE what God chooses to provide as we remain faithful and TRUST. We must open our eyes for Christmas miracles and never forget HE is the One who continues to bless us EVERY day of our lives. 

Let’s reflect on what God has already done to fill us with a spirit of thanksgiving and give Him the time He deserves. Let’s make room for Jesus to dwell in our hearts and make the decision to truly RECEIVE the BEST GIFT of Christmas. 

Jesus, precious Jesus has brought light to the darkness, HOPE for the weary, CALM for the worry and STRENGTH at the mention of His name. His LOVE will hold us together and nurture prayers of PRAISE. Because of Jesus we have LOVE that is eternal and complete. God brought us the PRESENT of PEACE when His will was fulfilled by our Savior. "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth PEACE to those on whom his favor rests." Luke 2: 14

Dear God, Thank you for the breath of Your holiness. Forgive us when we become exhausted by the things that should bring us peace and joy. Help us examine our hearts as we prepare for Christmas. Guide our thoughts and remind us to be still so we will feel the love of Your faithfulness. Thank you for the glory of Christmas. We will forever share the goodness of Your LOVE. Thank you, Lord. Thank you! Amen