Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Here's an Advent Prayer by Henri Nouwen that a friend sent me...I like it:

Lord Jesus, Master of both the light and the darkness, send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas.

We who have so much to do seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day.

We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us.

We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom.

We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence.

We are your people, walking in darkness, yet seeking the light. To you we say, “Come Lord Jesus!”

Dear Friends,

I pray that you have a blessed Thanksgiving celebrating with family and friends.

I am also thankful for...

bills to pay because it means I have financial provision

dirty dishes because it means I have food to eat

taxes because it means I am employed

dirty laundry because it means I have clothes to wear

the mess to clean up after a party because it means I have been surrounded by friends

the pool pump that needs fixing and the lawn that needs mowing, because it means I have a home

the power bill, because it means I am warm

the space I find at the far end of the parking lot, because it means I can walk

the person who sings off-key behind me in church, because it means I can hear

our government, because it means we have freedom of speech

the alarm that goes off in the morning because it means I am alive

a loving Savior who forgives my sins and makes me whole!

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thess. 5:16-18 (ESV)

Blessings, Suzanne

NO MATTER WHO WINS....

1. The Bible will still have all the answers. 2. Prayer will still work. 3. The Holy Spirit will still move. 4. God will still inhabit the praises of His people. 5. There will still be God-anointed preaching. 6. There will still be singing of praises to God. 7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people. 8. There will still be room at the Cross. 9. Jesus will still love you. 10. Jesus will still save the lost. ISN'T IT GREAT TO KNOW WHO IS STILL IN CONTROL.

It's been awhile

Amazing how I haven't been here since January of this year - how time flies. Wanted to share what my pastor said today in church that really hit me:

Jesus never locked eyes with anyone for whom He would not have been willing to die.

Powerful! God, help me love others as Jesus loved...

Happy 2008!

Wishing all of you a happy and healthy 2008! May God's love and presence comfort and surround you daily.