Tis the Season!

Well the time has come...stockings are hung by the chimney with care (yes, even in November), the twinkle of Christmas lights reflect off the carefully placed ornaments on the tree (well, those that haven't been knocked off by tiny hands), a variety of Christmas albums are on perpetual play on the radio & my iPod (okay, so I only hear them in between Veggie Tales & High School Musical 2 which make the "Most Played" list in my car thanks to Carter), Christmas movies and specials can be seen most any night of the week (or thanks to the miracle of Tivo, any hour of the day and commercial free!), and Santa has found his throne at the mall (which he's been sitting on since Halloween).  

That's right, it's finally the best season of the year...CHRISTMAS fills the air!  While I know not everyone agrees with the focus on Santa, presents, and the "gimme" attitude it can foster, I pray that we can ALL enjoy both the magic of stepping into a child's view of Christmas--enjoying the break from reality and into the wonder of it all--and the celebration of the birth of our Savior.  It is so sweet to see and experience this season through Carter's eyes.  His excitement and thrill at the slightest hint of Christmas...from every Christmas light to every giant lawn ornament...it is all so new and wondrous to him.  

Of course, we are teaching him that Christmas isn't all about Santa and lights--but is about the birth of our Savior and the greatest gift we can ever receive...salvation through Christ.  

If you have never experienced a real, meaningful relationship with God, or if you're feeling distant in your relationship with him, I pray that this season might re-ignite in your heart the passion to pursue a relationship with Him.  May the same overwhelming excitement fill your heart each time you see Christmas lights and giant snowmen lawn ornaments as it does for our 2 year old---not because this is a season of giving, but rather that it is a season of receiving not just any gift...THE GIFT....JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD!

May the Lord bless you and keep you... Numbers 6:24

Love to all~Sarah