God

Sunday Thought

mikemjensen Sunday Thought Tags: , , , 2 Comments

Hey Kids,

I’m traveling today so I apologize for an auto post today.

Recently I was introduced to a scripture that when I looked it up in my own bible, showed no notes or marks.

I know I’ve read it before but for whatever reason it never struck me like it did this time.

4201121-heavenly-rays-normal“For You have been a defense for the helpless, A defense for the needy in his distress, A refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat; For the breath of the ruthless Is like a rain storm against a wall.” Isaiah 25:4

How many times have I been shielded from those things that would hurt me, things that could damage me, and things I cannot avoid on my own? How many times has my God, or my faith in my God helped me overcome those challenges?

And then the next thought.

How many times have I been a shield for others? How many times have I made another’s day or life better? There are plenty of opportunities. Just do it.

Thank you Debbie Choplin.

A Refuge in the Storm

Day 230

The (A) Meaning of Christmas

mikemjensen Life's Truths, Twice the Christmas Tags: , , , , , , , 4 Comments

Christmas, for me, is all about tonight and early tomorrow morning. The culmination of all the festivities, the lights, the trees, the goodies, the songs, and the whole crazy month of December and then some, bringing us to the one night when we all get together, make the phone calls, and think of those who are dear to us. The family and friends gathered together in a family room, exchanging gifts and sharing a joyful time is what it’s all about. Yes there are rough patches in getting so much family together, but there always is. On Christmas Eve, it’s just fun.

I know Jesus fits in the middle of this as Christmas, remembering the greatest gift of God to us all. It saddens me, however, when that thought is used as a stick to make people guilty to be excited about the candy n the stocking and the gift shopping and wrapping. Let’s be honest, most of the things we deem “tradional Christmas” has absolutely nothing to do with Luke 2.

Don’t get me wrong, I love taking my own personal moments, usually during a rendition of “Oh Holy Night” and think of the bigger picture. Of Grace. Of miracles. Of God. I cherish those moments. But Tonight, its about the presents. It’s about the ones around me. It’s about thinking of those who are not. It’s a time to laugh together. To hug. To kiss under the pagan mistletoe and feel and share the love of others.

Jesus is invited too. But not at the exclusion of everything else. It doesn’t have to be a black and white thing. Christmas is a time for all of it.

With that Have a very Merry Christmas Eve!

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