A Son Is Given To Us

 

 

 I hope everyone is having a wonderful Christmas!  I love that Christmas is a whole season and not just a single day. I really enjoy the days after Christmas. All the busy, running around town is over, and the Christmas peace, which is what I truly wanted for Christmas, finds me. As I gaze upon my manger, I am so grateful that I opened the door to Mary and Joseph again this year.  They came and placed the Christ Child into my home. My heart overflows with joy and love. With Elizabeth I ponder the incredible blessing, “ And how does this happen to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me,” and share the Son of God with me?

 "For a child is born to us, a son given to us; upon his shoulder dominion rests. They name him Wonder-Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His dominion is vast and forever peaceful..." (Isaiah 9: 5-6). I hope you all continue to enjoy the blessings of this Christmas.

-Susan

Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas! (It's Not Over Yet)

 

 

 I hope you all had a wonder-filled Christmas and continue to stand in awe in front of the manger. In the past, I have heard coworkers remark that they took down all their Christmas decorations on December 26th, exclaiming that Christmas was over. But it's not.  Christmas is a season. Could one day be enough to marvel and thank God for the birth of Jesus?  Could one lifetime be enough to thank God for loving us so much?

  I don't think so. Continue to dive into the rich mysteries surrounding Christ's birth. The birth of a child is only the beginning; it's not the end.  Keep growing in Christ's love.  Sit next to Mary and let the face of Jesus melt your heart.  Stand next to Joseph and learn how to protect the love of God from being destroyed by the world.

  Although the world may view December 25th as a singular day, I believe it was the day that changed the world forever. This is only the beginning!

-Susan

Reflecting God's Love

 

    During the Christmas season, I enjoy watching a movie on the Nativity of Christ. Most of the films are well done. But I have to admit, I am often uncomfortable with how Mary can be portrayed. There is always something off about her character. I have even been known to say aloud, "Mary would never say that, or she would never have done that." I have even stopped watching movies because they do not do Mary justice. It may seem I'm claiming to be an expert on Mary, but I will admit I'm not. However, I do know Mary. She is the most wonderful, caring mother I have ever met, and I love her dearly.

 It is difficult for an actress to demonstrate Mary's most extraordinary qualities. Mary's humility, love for God, and obedience to His Will are unmatched. Her holiness is so beautiful because she magnifies God's love to all. When I sit with Mary, I feel God's love. Mary never comes between me and God; she always nudges me closer. The thought that Jesus would share His Mother with me is a blessing beyond comprehension. 

 This truly is a beautiful time of the year to reflect on the birth of our Savior, followed by such intimate feasts as the Feast of the Holy Family and the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. May the love of the Christ child shine brightly in your lives. As we gaze at Jesus lying in the manger, do not overlook the loving gaze He gives Mary and Joseph.

-Susan