This Time of Year

This time of year brings many feels to me. It is a time to be thankful for the greatest Gift given to all mankind and on a very personal level to me.: That Gift is Jesus!

In Him, we are given HOPE and a LOVE that is so overwhelming and unconditional. Yes, unconditional, for even in our foolishness and rebellion, God loves us. Like an awesome Father, He extends MERCY and FORGIVENESS when we repent and turn away from our sins.

I also think of friends that have died this time of the year. Anne O'Leary, who taught me how to see God's hand in everything and to be thankful for your trials for they will pass. But during those trial you are in excellent company: Father,Son and Holy Spirit. i cherish the days we had in prayer for the pregnant women or for the women who wanted to have a child. It is something, I still pray about often. She had a heart for not only women but for people. Though confined to her bed by MS, she was a mighty warrior and took "the land" for the KIngdom of God. In her, I saw how great God's Love is and how deep HIs mercies are.

I think of my parents: they married on this day 54 years ago. Together they have raised eight children: all with strong wills and determined spirits. They some how managed to bind these eight into a family that truly loves each other and into people who would do anything and everything possible to help each other. We may not see each other for long periods of time; but when we do we pick up in our conversations like we just saw each other the day before and we delight when one does well or is blessed.

Gifts to me do not necessarily come under the tree or wrapped in bright paper and pretty ribbons. I have been blessed with the gifts of years and the fellowship of family and friends. I have been given five wonderful children and their spouses who in turn gave me "little possiblities" who will grow up to be might men and women of God.

These "gifts of possiblities" are the owners of Big Plans authored by a Big God who loves them so much. I cannot wait to see how they will influence their sphere and the world beyond for the KIngdom of God.