Great Joy.

Matthew 2:10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.

Whatever it is that you find yourself doing today, remember over 2000 years ago the people were weary, too.  Much like the very pregnant Mary, the people were waiting in great expectation for this glorious King that was going to save them.  They were exhausted, broken, and life wasn't turning out exactly as planned.

Sound familiar?

My prayer is that the quiet joy in your heart erupts on your faces today.  I pray we will delight in these next few days like the children who can barely contain themselves.  May we not feel persecuted by family members and/or coworkers with poor social skills and lack of filter, and that we will extend the same Grace that is extended to us daily.   May we take the time to step away from the photo or status update and be present with those sitting right next to us.  I pray that we will delight in the ridiculous gifts we receive and the terrible food we will be forced to taste, and recognize that so many are without these things.  May the conversations and the memories made these next few days be sealed in our hearts as some of our most favorite and precious things.  

And I pray that we will receive the Gift that isn't under the tree, but Who is all around us in every moment and in every breath we breathe, and that we will inhale deeply with gratitude and joy.  

Wishing you and yours a delightful and Joy-filled Christmas--

xoxxo