Christmas Wishes

I came across a song recently, one I used to listen to for hours when I was younger.  You're probably already thinking "oh me, another one of her songs," but hang with me!  Grown Up Christmas List is the name and my particular version was by Amy Grant.  After hearing it again this morning, I started to think, primarily about Christmas, the season, this time of year, but also about life in general.  Christmas is a season of hope, peace, joy, and love.  A season of "togetherness."  A season of rejuvenation.  But the reality is that while Christmas is a sense of all things "ideal," life is not always rolled out on a seeming red carpet, is it?  

I'm being challenged in my life right now, in more ways than one.  But I am convinced that no matter how crazy or chaotic or overwhelming life may get at times, that my God is greater.  When I'm weak, He is strong, and when I have no idea what tomorrow may bring, He holds it and I don't even have to worry.  It's comforting.  Doesn't erase any hurt, anger, sadness, disappointment, or worry but it calms my fears and gives me peace.

Do you have peace this Christmas season?  I pray you do.  I pray that you can find a few moments in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the season to rest in God's peace.  Look at those around you.  I am often amazed at just how one smile, one random act of kindness, or simply just being with somebody can change their day.  You can be somebody's angel this Christmas season.  Don't run too much that you miss opportunities God has placed before you to change someone's life.  Take some time today to give a little joy and hope away.  I believe that is how God helps us through our own difficult times.  I pray I can follow through myself, and that I don't miss those special moments when God has placed them in front of me.

I am still anxiously awaiting the news that after one year (and counting...) that I can meet my bone marrow recipient.  Trust me, it's not easy being patient!  I know so many of you have asked about her and if I've heard from her, and my answer is not a "no" but a "not yet."  I know in my heart, that when the time is right, I will get to meet her and her family.  I still pray everyday for her and pray for our meeting one day.  I can't help but saying I wish I could meet her this Christmas!  Hey, who knows what great things God has in store?!

I pray that you have wishes this Christmas.  Not for big, extravagant gifts, but for time - precious time with friends and family.  For that sense of hope, peace, joy, and love that a little baby brought us years and years ago.  He came for you and he came for me.  To remind us that we are not alone, no matter what the days may bring.  May you wish to touch the lives of those around you.  Share your peace with them.  Our lives are a journey.  Each one of us have different ones.  It's funny how our Christmas wishes change as we get older, isn't it?  May you embrace your path for what it's worth and not look back.  God has great and mighty things in store for you!

"Well, I'm all grown up now and still need help somehow.

I'm not a child, but my heart still can dream.

So here's my lifelong wish, my grown-up Christmas list.

Not for myself, but for a world in need.

No more lives torn apart,

That wars would never start,

And time would heal all hearts.

That everyone would have a friend,

And right would always win, 

And love would never end.

This is my grown-up Christmas list."