God of Fire
Our missions trip to the Philippines was beyond description. We helped trained new believers who live and work in the "smoky mountain" dump in Manila and others who live in the cemetery. Which just having a small taste of the ministry of the amazing woman, Jane Walker. We then flew to Davao, Mindanao for training of pastors, leaders, children's workers, multimedia of a wonderful church under the leadership of Pastor Herley. We met with old friends. Made new ones. We preached a "First Love" conference, Philippine style. Was able to witness the breath taking ministry of their youth "Harvest" event where over 900 received Christ. We worked morning, night and afternoon and enjoyed every moment of it. Finished the trip off with "island hopping" with a picnic that included a roasted pig, swam and even had a bit of scuba diving. But during it all, we were getting news from back from home. My was daughter going through a devastating season, our dog Jasper, only 6 years old became blind and diabetic almost overnight. There were many times this week, since we came home when we thought we were going to have to put him to sleep. Jasper, for those of you who love dogs, understands is part of the family. Its been such a struggle. My youngest son is going through very difficult leadership challenges and his wife's mother was diagnosed with Lupis. Those being the big things, but there were many, many smaller challenges that all combined to nearly overwhelm me, while we were gone and the week since we've been back. I've found myself shouting at God, angry, hurt and very discouraged. But in the midst of wonderful ministry, and through firey trials beyond any I have expereiced in recent years, the Lord spoke. I hope He speaks to you through this word.
Picture…I saw the Lord upon His throne. His eyes were like flames of fire and the words coming out of His mouth were like lightening bolts. In confusion and not a little fear, I inquired of the Lord, "When I have seen you seated upon your throne in the heavenly realm, you have always been majestic in your bearing, high and lifted up. There have been times when you have been the very personification of a loving Father, reaching out to embrace and comfort your children. Never before have you shown yourself to me as a terrible force, one that must be feared. I don't understand. I know that you are a righteous, holy and just God, and someday you will judge all who have ever walked upon this earth. But isn't this the day of your grace? This looks like judgment to me?
Hear…the Lord say, "You are not seeing my judgment. You could not bear to see that. What you are seeing is my love for you. Just as a parent is fierce in the protection of their children, I aggressively protect my own. You are watching my words as they go forth in power, destroying the attacks of the enemy. All that has happened or ever will happen to you has passed through my hands. I allow them because I know that I can use them to develop and strengthen you. They are not accidents. I have not fallen asleep while the enemy has been at work. I know what you need to prepare you for the things that you have yet to experience. I'm your Creator as well as Father. I am fully aware of what you can stand. I will not allow you to be destroyed. I come against all of the plots and strategies of the enemy that have the ability to truly damage or destroy you. My love for you is fierce. I will not let you be damaged. Strengthened, yes. Matured, yes. Harmed, absolutely not."
Consider: Once when we were in the Smokey Mountains a ranger explained to us that we should not approach baby cubs. Yes, they are cute and adorable; and they look like they couldn't do much damage. But where there is a baby bear, there IS a momma bear. She might leave you alone if you are just walking in the woods, but if it looks like you are messing with her baby, look out! I've never actually seen that happen, but I've read enough accounts to know that it is true. Not only is it true in the animal kingdom, it is also true in the human realm. You can say something hurtful to me and I'll work through it. You say or act in a hurtful manner to my children, there is going to be some words. I am not going to sit idly by while you hurt my children. Believe me. Do you think that our Heavenly Father is less of a parent than the ones found in the animal kingdom? Do you think that he is less than the ones made in his image? He is a loving, caring and protective Father. Sometimes when we are in the midst of problems and heartaches we tend to forget. All that comes through the Father's hand can be used to develop and strengthen us if we will allow it. We need to ask Him, "How do you want me to respond to this? How can this help me to be a more loving and authentic person?" We also need to thank Him for the times we are totally unaware of His fierce protection. When we take time each day to thank Him for the things we have seen Him do on our behalf, we also need to thank Him for protecting us from things that we never had to see. Remember, God loves you unreservedly, passionately, and aggressively.
Pray: "Father, thank you for your unfailing love. Thank you for getting me up this morning, even though it was not exactly when I wanted to do it. Thank you for giving me breath to breathe. Thank you for all of the blessings you have given me. List the things that God has done for you. Name each one specifically, large and small.__________________________________ I want to also thank you for the things that I haven't seen. Thank you for fighting on my behalf. Thank you for the accident's that didn't happen, for the illnesses that did not ravish my body. Thank you for saving me from big mistakes through your guidance. Thank you for bringing key people into my life, and for keeping others away. Thank you for everything seen and not seen that you have done in my life. In Jesus Name, Amen."
"Let's Dance"
It's been an interesting month. But aren't they all? I went to my mom's in the Detroit area to help her with household things, where I had an altercation with a bagel knife. I lost. A trip to the emergency room, to the doctors and twice to a specialist and my finger is finally on the mend. Just still not up for a lot of typing. My daughter went to Uganda. I'm getting ready to lead a team to the Philippines. We had our annual leadership retreat. Lots and lots of work for that one, but oooh sooo worth it. I've preached at all three campuses. Okay...I'll stop. I know your list is as long as mine. But these word pictures really spoke to my heart in all the busyness. I pray it talks to your heart as well. “Let’s Dance” – Three Pictures
Picture…while worshipping the Lord with my eyes closed I heard the Lord say, “Let’s Dance.” He then showed me a series of pictures involving people dancing. This first picture was of a young man on a crowded dance floor, who was obviously dancing alone. There was a four-foot buffer zone around him because everyone was giving him wide berth to keep from being hit in his “enthusiastic” dance style. His arms were flailing around with no particular rhythm or movement. He was spinning, stomping, kicking and jumping around like he had “ants in his pants,” like my mother used to say. Just watching him for a moment was exhausting.
Hear…the Lord say, “That is not what I had in mind. I want you to take my hand that is extending to you and allow ME to lead. I want to teach you the steps to the dance I choreographed just for you. But I also want to you to get accustomed to following my lead. I want you to partner with me in prayer and ministry. I don’t want you going off on your own and expending all your energy in such an ineffective manner. I never asked you to do it on your own. I want you to take my hand and follow my lead in a dance that will cause you to be effective in my kingdom and in life.”
***
Picture…the next picture was of elegantly clad couple dancing a waltz a candle lit ballroom. There were other dancers but I could not take my eyes off this pair. It wasn’t just the dashing tuxedo of the gentleman or shimmering gown and dazzling jewels of the lady that drew my attention. It was the look on their faces. There was such a look of rapture on their faces that I was almost embarrassed to watch. It felt like I was intruding on a very private moment, not that they would have noticed for they only had eyes for each other. Their love was radiating so strong and pure that it was almost a tangible thing.
Hear…the Lord say, “There are those who are aching and hurting today. Your pain is real, but my love will wipe the tears from your eyes and the dull pain throbbing in your chest. Step into my arms and allow me to hold you close. Allow me to embrace you and drive all thoughts of hopelessness from your mind. I love you. I ache with the love that I bear for you. Don’t stay huddled alone in your pain. Step into my arms and let me sweep you away to a place where I can show you my love without disruption. There is too much hurt all around. Step away with me. Dance with me. Let me love you.”
***
Picture…The last picture was of a couple swing dancing. It was just as full of energy as the first guy, but their movements were perfectly timed. Every movement was well executed from the woman jumping into the man’s arms to her slide on the floor between his legs. My first thought was, “Wow, these guys are in good shape.” I couldn’t imagine such sustained physical exertion. Then I thought, “Dancing is definitely not for sissies.” It was so cool.
Hear…the Lord say, “They didn’t just get on the floor yesterday. They have been practicing and practicing. They have practiced so hard and for so long that they have begun anticipating each other’s moves and can improvise. There are those who have been following my lead in the dance of life for a while now. They have been learning to follow my lead from a simple hand gesture to a complex move. They have no thoughts about what they want or what they are going to do. They know strictly to follow my lead. It has been a long and difficult journey. Learning the steps has been difficult. But it is time now for their reward. It is ‘SHOW TIME.’ Because of their faithfulness, because they have followed me every step, I am now going to release the miraculous into their lives. Doors previously shut will be opened. Weariness will dissipate. Prayers prayed for years will be answered. They have danced with me consistently and I trust them. Yes, I know that they trust me, but I also trust them. I know that they will obey me in all ways. Do you think that I was surprised by Abraham’s obedience in bringing his son to me for sacrifice? No, I knew that it was time. I knew that he would pass the test. He faltered some along the way, but he learned his lessons. So have you. Look forward to the dawn of a new season of fruitfulness and prosperity as you continue to follow my lead.”
Consider: The Lord has said it all, and said it quite clearly. There is nothing for me to explain or add. I would just encourage you to meditate on the word that applies to you.
Pray: “Oh sweet Lord, Lover of my soul. My heart is so full I can barely speak let alone pray. I love you so much, and I am beginning to understand your great love for me. You love me when I’ve ‘blown it’ and you love me when I am hurting. You love me when I’ve kept in step with you and you love me when I’ve missed my cue. I’ve been rather disturbed today about a number of things, but your love has made all those things seem so unimportant now. Thank you for being patient with me. Thank you for comforting me. Thank you for your promise of victory. You are my heart. You are my joy. You are my victory. I want to follow you so closely that I anticipate your direction and meet you there. I want to be obedient in every little thing. I want to please you above anything else in this world. Help me to do that. Help me to please you. Help me to follow your every lead. In Jesus Name, Amen.”
I've come to believe that some people are facebook, blogger, twitter, e-mail kind of people and some are not. And I think maybe I'm not. I want to be. I recognize the tremendous value of networking, sharing and encouraging each other, even when it's not face to face. After all, I've written books haven't I? I see the value, I recognize the need. All I can say is that I'm sorry I've allowed the cares and concerns of family and church overwhelm me to the point I've totally forsaken my friends in "syber space". You can catch my articles on my Heart to Heart website,
http://www.h2hworldwide.com/. or some sermons on our church website,
http://www.clctoday.org/. You can order the book I've written, "Out of the Septic Tank" from my website,
http://www.chrismcquay.com/. But I promise to do better on this blog, I promise. Really I do. I don't want to make excuses, but there has been a lot going on, some good, some stressful and some painful. There's even been some fun stuff, like preparing for my daughter's wedding. My daughter Jen is getting married to a minister in Uganda this fall, and will living in Uganda as a missionary. I'll share more about her ministry in future blogs, but today I'm thinking about wedding plans, and wedding dresses in particular. Your
dress...
“Glorious Garment”
Picture…I saw God in all of his glory. I can’t describe how beautiful his garments were, because He shown with such brilliance I couldn’t make out the details. I wish I could have taken you there because I can’t describe it. But what I can tell you is that it looked like he was holding some kind of material in his arms. I was in such awe that it took a couple of moments to speak. When I found my voice the first thing I said was, “Lord what’s that?” (Indicating the material in his arms.)
Hear…the Lord say, “It’s your garment.” As he held it up by the shoulders away from His glory so that I could get a better look at it, I gasped in amazement. I couldn’t believe it; it was so beautiful. The material seemed to flow like it was water, and it shimmered and shined with every movement. I recognized God’s glory in the glow of the garment. There was exquisite embroidery work nearly on inch of the garment and in the embroidery were worked precious stones of every description. There was more delicate detail work sewn in it than on any material or gown I had ever seen. I cried, “Lord it’s just so beautiful. Beautiful doesn’t even describe it. It’s beautiful beyond description.” Then the Lord told me that it was not yet finished, but that He had wanted to show it to me. “When it is done, you will wear it at our wedding feast.” Then the Lord brought Isaiah 61:10 to my remembrance.
I am overwhelmed with joy in the LORD my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. I am like a bridegroom in his wedding suit or a bride with her jewels. (NLT)
I asked in wonder, “Lord, you’re making this for me?” He surprised me when He said, “No, it’s a joint process. It is my righteousness but you are the one who is adding the detail work.” Then he reminded me of Isaiah 54:11-13.
O you afflicted one, tossed with tempest, and not comforted, behold, I will lay your stones with colorful gems, and lay your foundations with sapphires. I will make your pinnacles of rubies, your gates of crystal, and all your walls of precious stones. All your children shall be taught by the LORD, And great shall be the peace of your
children. (NKJV)
The Lord continued to speak, “Every time you are afflicted; every time you experience hurt, disappointment, and/or frustration, your proper response to me is what allows me to put more stones and precious gems in your garment and in your crown. Every time you react to negative circumstances by turning them over to me, I add more gems. Every time you surrender your pain and distress over to me you are laying precious handiwork on that garment. So you see we are making this together. Someday you will stand by my side as my bride.”
Consider: The glory of the Lord will be so great in that we finally get to see him face to face, I just can’t describe it. John tried to describe it in Rev. 19:11-16.
I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. "He will rule them with an iron scepter." He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. (NIV)
His gown will be so white, so luminous. But what we might not have considered is that the gowns that he is preparing for his bride, no, the gowns we are preparing together, will be no less incandescent. They are going to be white as snow. The garment will not fade. And that day we will reflect his glory. When someone sees us, they will be seeing HIM. Our glorious Lord loves you. He has a garment that He is preparing with your help. Every time you respond to adversity with His words, mindset, and attitude, the more you are being made into His likeness and the more you reflect His glory. But I’m not just referencing the robes that we shall wear one day when we are able to sit with Him in the Heavenlies, but also here on earth. The more you respond to the ugly with the beautiful the more people will see Jesus shining through you.
Pray: “Lord, I am so looking forward to that day when I get to spend forever with you in Heaven. But to be honest, I’m really looking forward to the “no tears” policy more than the beautiful garment that we are making. I guess that is why I sometimes forget how important my response is to things that are painful and difficult. It’s not just about me. It is about you. It is about all those who will cross my path. I do want them to see your light shining through me. I want it to be said that when they see me, that they can see you too. It was in Antioch that believers so reflected your glory that they started calling them Christians. I want to be called a Christian for more than my church affiliation. I want to be called a Christian because people see you in me. Help me to respond to everything that happens to me today the way that you would, so that your glory can shine through me. I love you and I want to make a difference for you in this world. But I need to remember that it is more about who we are, than what we do. Thank you for reminding me. I needed that. And, oh, yes, thank you for showing me the garment. It reminds me that there is more at stake here than the 70 years we walk on this earth. I can’t wait to try it on. I love you. In Jesus Name, Amen.”
After recieving the news last night of the tragic death of a 21 month old little girl in our congregation, I cried out to God for the pain of her parents. I prayed for their peace in a situation where there obviously can be no peace in the natural. I didn't sleep much last night, but I prayed. God reminded me of a word He once gave me. I know that its not for her parents, it's not appropriate to their situation. But I believe He brought this to my rememberance for some of you, who may be going through difficult circumstances right now. I pray it will help you."Winging It”
Picture…a chicken protecting her chicks under her wing from the wind and rain. There is one little chick ducking out from under the protection of her mother’s wing in an attempt to make it on her own. The chick is being buffeted by rain, wind and hail, as the mother tries to nudge it back into safety underneath her wing.
Hear…the Lord say, “If you are in trouble or you are going through painful struggles, endeavor to stay under the protection of my wing. You were not meant to face this storm alone. Stay under my protection by being obedient to my every word spoken to you. If you choose to walk your own way and to make your own decisions in this storm you will find only discomfort and even pain. But if you will stay I will protect you, I will nurture you, and I will help you to grow in safety. You will become like a strong tower that offers protection and safety to others as well. But stay under the shadow of my wing during this time of adversity and allow me to work in you what I need to work in you. Be obedient to my every word.”
Consider: Obedience is like an umbrella that protects us from much of the elements. I have noticed that when the wind is really blowing hard, the rain manages to dampen my clothes some, but it is not like it would be without the umbrella. God wants to shelter you from the elements of life, but that doesn’t mean that you won’t feel a thing. It means that you will be safe. There are times when you and I think that we can make it on our own. We think that this is just a little drizzle and a little drizzle won’t kill us. But even the lightest drizzle can make you feel cold and miserable. Why go through that? Determine right now that you will be obedient to God through your struggles, careful to obey every word, every direction. It is in obedience that you will find shelter and peace. Don’t walk away from the obedience that offers you protection from the elements of the storm.
Pray: “Lord, I know that when the winds of life are blowing strong, I turn to you for help. But I don’t think that I think about how much obedience has to do with your ability to protect me. Yes, You are almighty God, the creator of the whole universe and that nothing is too hard for you. It is not a matter of being too hard; it is a matter of free will. When I choose to walk in disobedience to even Your smallest word, I am choosing to live outside of your protection. I need to remember that. Right now, I am throwing myself on your mercy and asking for your grace. Protect me…comfort me…help me to grow into a Christian who can offer support and shelter to others, in Jesus Name, Amen.”
Finally
After 15 years of writing through surgeries, planting churches, starting up ministries, pastoring, ministering in Brazil, Napal, England, Philippines, Indonesia, Uganda, Senegal, Kenya, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Kazakhstan, India, Turkey and Mexico...and numerous prophesies...the book is finished. THANK YOU JESUS!!! I'm so thankful to the Lord for helping me finish what we started together such a long time ago. The book was written to help Christians not just survive the difficult seasons of life, but to thrive. This book was written with you in mind; to give you hope and to guide you on your journey of healing. When the Lord told me it was time to start writing “Out of the Septic Tank”, I resisted.
“Lord, I can’t write a book in my present condition. I’m hurting. I’m in pain. The events of my life have reached crisis proportions. I have difficulty writing in the best of times; I certainly wouldn’t be able to string two sensible words together at this point in my life.”
Have you ever tried arguing with God? Have you ever won? I have tried on a number of occasions to debate an issue with the Lord, but I‘ve never even come close to winning. This time was no exception.
“Child, crisis is exactly what I want you to write about. Write about the enemy’s attempts to destroy and my plans to restore. Explain to my children that not only can they survive crisis, but they can grow through it as well. Because you are there yourself, you will not be tempted to give empty platitudes and easy advice. Write from your heart Chris, share all that I am teaching you through this time of pain and loss. Now is the right time.”
Well...I started but the demands of ministry kept my writing time to a minimum. At least that's my story and I'm sticking with it. No...maybe I need to be honest here. I was comfortable being the woman who was writing a book, but really didn't want to do what needed to be done to get it out where people can receive help through it. I was afraid. Afraid of the unknown, afraid of rejection, afraid of failure...and any other fear you can think of. So I dragged my feet. But God put an end to the procrastination, and now the book is published and I have to do the very thing I was afraid of, and that is promote the book. I'm asking you to help me by praying for me and also participating in the following interview. THANK YOU...and God bless you...
Please Join Terry Whalin of Intermedia Publishing Group and IMPRBOOKS.COM as we interview Chris McQuay, Author of “Out of the Septic Tank.
To participate in this interview, please use the following link for submitting questions and for more information
http://mail.clctoday.org/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://tinyurl.com/McQuayInterviewIMPRBooks.com and Intermedia Publishing Group
present “Out of the Septic Tank”
How to thrive not just survive a crisis!
Click here to orderChris McQuay is the founder and president of Heart-to-Heart Ministries International, a ministry to help women know they are loved and valued by God. She has served as a pastor and missionary alongside her husband Jerry since 1972. In 1990 they founded the Christian Life Center, a multi-ethnic church in suburban Chicago which has grown to more than 2,500 members from over 30 different nations, with locations in Tinley Park and Shorewood, Illinois and South Bend, Indiana.
A licensed Christian counselor, Chris is the author of two earlier books, Broken Vessels and Behold Thy Handmaid. She is the mother of three adult children, Chad, Jen and Brent, and two granddogs, Jasper and Pedro.
“Chris McQuay is no voice. As an articulate communicator of the gospel, a wife, mother and licensed counselor, she brings to her audience a multilayered approach to her ability to communicate truths. You will be enlightened, encouraged and excited to discover simple answers to complex life situations.”
Bishop Joseph L. Garlington, Sr. Senior Pastor of Covenant Church of Pittsburgh
Presiding Bishop
Reconciliation Ministries International: A Network of Churches and Ministries
“Out of the Septic Tank offers a practical, down-to-earth, and sometimes even humorous approach to crisis. It's a must-read for anyone struggling with the stressful, difficult and painful events that life sometimes brings.”
Mark Batterson
Lead Pastor, National Community Church
Washington, D.C.
“You’ve never read a book quite like this. Be prepared to cry, to smile, and to take some notes! Out of the Septic Tank provides you with steps for healing, growth and new purpose for your life. It will not only help you get better. It will help you be better!”
Alice Smith
Best selling author and internationally-known speaker
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Year of War
I was coming home from spending the holiday's with my parents in Detroit. The trip home was uneventful compared with the drive there through a blizzard. It was raining, but traffic on I 94 was moving right along until I was in Indiana near I 65. It took over an hour to go less than three miles. Needless to say, I was frustrated. So close to home, yet so far away. Three lanes were narrowing down to one, and the woman in the car in front of me was letting in every car and truck who wanted to cut in. In fact, she pretty much just parked the car and waited for everyone to cut in front of her. When I counted 64 vehicles mostly big trucks...I started to lose it. I drove right up on her bumber and made motions with my hands which meant...well...you can imagine. But she paid no attention. Now I'd have liked to be like this woman, generous to every big rig on 94, but I was tired, and getting more frustrated by the moment. I was about to lose it all together (I now understand a little bit about road rage) when I decided I had a choice. Lose my salvation or keep it. I decided my salvation was more important, so I put on praise and worship music and decided just to praise God. In that moment God spoke to me and gave me a prophet word for our church that I wrote down so I wouldn't forget. When you are parked on the expressway you can do that. I want to share it with you. Oh and by the way...the traffic backup? It was caused by them filling in pot holes in the rain on a Saturday afternoon. It was so good that I was in the presence of God by that time. I hope you receive something from the word, or at least from my experience. We always have a choice!When you’re stuck and can’t seem to move forward
When you’re in the desert and your soul feels dryWhen you’re in need financially, emotionally, physically or spiritually
When you’re confused and flooded with doubtsWhen you’re in the fire of trial and difficulty
When you’re inundated with painWhen you’re in the battle and victory is yet to comePraise, rejoice, and declare…God’s promises to you.
This is the war, and this is how you fight. Praise when you feel like crying, acting out, lashing out, or dropping out. This is the year of battle. This is the year of war.
You gotta learn to stand. You gotta learn to fight. You gotta learn to say no to your senses and YES to God’s word. Because this is also the year of victory, like none you’ve ever seen. You can’t have victory without first a battle, so fight in praise! As Moses stood still and lifted the rod and God split the red sea, you need to stand still and lift your praise as God brings the victory.
And if you’re in the good season, or favor and provision…the same applies…Praise, rejoice, and declare…join ranks with your brothers and sisters and fight for them, for this church, our nation and world in praise!
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas
from my family...
Let me introduce them. In the family picture, the back row has our son Brent and his wife Sol, our son Chad and his wife Dorothy, middle row Jerry and I and down in the center is our daughter Jen. The picture of the loving couple is of my mom and dad. The picture of our three adult children, the joy of our lives, Brent, Jen and Chad...
When almighty God left the splendors of His throne room of heaven to be born as a vulnerable little baby boy here on this earth…it changed EVERYTHING. His coming brought hope, joy and a revolutionary love.
No one knows when Christ was actually born, but early Christians who wanted to celebrate his birth, picked a day mid-winter…the day we call Christmas. Christmas was set aside as a day to remember Christ’s humble beginnings and the purpose for His coming; our salvation.
"For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 NLT
So, what happened? How did a time set aside to celebrate the birth of our Savior turn into a season of stress, frustration, traffic jams, shopping lists and marathon shopping sprees? (Black Friday) For many, the peace and joy of Christ’s birth has been replaced by exhaustion and debt and an empty feeling of missed purpose. Is this what we really want out of Christmas? Is this really what Christmas should be about?
I don't think so, do you? I think Christmas should be about taking time to BE with family and friends...not just rushing in and out of their lives. But truly being with them. Making memories, reflecting on old memories, sharing joys and sorrows and of course, remembering the reason we have set aside this time...CHRIST. It should be about giving to those who cannot give back. Not just our finances, but our time, talent patience, courtesy and smiles.
Sure, go ahead and deck the halls with boughs of holly. And if you are not big on the whole woodsy stuff, try twinkle lights, angels, bears or penquins. Penguins are a particular favorite of mine. Enjoy the cards you send and receive. Use those cards later for your family prayer lists. We did this when our children were small and then burned the cards in the fireplace. I don't know how much the kids liked praying, but they sure enjoyed the fire. Bake and cook up a storm. Enjoy whatever family traditions that have been passed down to you, and maybe start a few new ones. But don't let any of it turn into marathon, endurance contests. Enjoy the holidays with family and friends and make sure you don't forget the Birthday BOY/MAN/SAVIOR/KING!
SEE: A man playing multiple instruments: An accordian in his hands, cymbals attached to his legs at his knees, a harmonica attached to a harness hanging by his mouth and horns under his arms that squacks when he squeeses his elbows to his body. But don't miss the joyful countenance on his face. No concentration there, trying to keep all of this going...just pure joy.
Hear the Lord say, "Praise Me continually. It brings joy to My heart, especially when I know you are experiencing the vicissitudes of life. It's not because I'm an egomaniac. It's because worship opens my hand and worry closes it. I cannot respond to worry; I can only wait until you cease worrying and begin to praise. I know there is much that can perplex, distract and perhaps even overwhelm you in this season of life. But as long as you lift your voice and heart in praise it will not defeat nor will it destroy you. Praise sweet child. Praise! "
