Wow, Christmas Eve 2010...can you believe it?
I have enjoyed the holiday season this year with many parties, lots of laughs, long days of shopping, and very little rest. Oh well, that's our typical life in the month of December. Today I finally wrapped all the presents. My kids are now excited knowing they actually have gifts.
As I reflected on what to say in my blog, I was very moved and challenged earlier this week as Kerwin Dees, one of our assistant principals, shared his favorite Christmas memory. You see, Kerwin's precious wife, Vicki, has been battling cancer for 32 months. I cannot tell the story the same as Kerwin, but he shared how friends had come and decorated their home, had cooked a Christmas meal for their family, and had sent gifts to them. The children and grandchildren all came as they celebrated Christmas just last Friday. He went on to say that we should always celebrate like it might be our last one.
I was challenged in the fact that Vicki's faith is amazing and strong. In fact, she got a wonderful report from her doctor two days ago. She is such a testimony of God's faithfulness. (Check out their blog at: http://www.vickidees.blogspot.com/).
It challenged me to not take the little things for granted. My family is healthy, my kids are wonderful, my marriage is the greatest, our church family is the best, and so much more. I think so many times we view the things that are wrong when we need to thank God for all that is right. I know I personally shouldn't focus on how tired I am, my long to-do list, and all that frustrates me. I need to focus on the fact I am blessed to have time and strength to do the things I must do.
So my Christmas wish for you is that you might truly reflect on the greatest gift ever given: "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." What a sacrifice and an immeasurable gift of grace!
Merry Christmas to all!!!
