Christmas is a time of great joy and celebration, but it can also be a time of somber reflection. Today is the 12th anniversary of my dad’s stepping into eternity in 2009 and meeting his Savior. This ornament is in honor of his career with the railroad.

I am blessed above all men through the people God has placed in my life. My father was the model of what a father should look like. He loved his family, he loved his work, and he loved helping others. I had wonderful grandparents and the best parents anyone could imagine. God has given me a very special lady for my wife and blessed me with a daughter, a son-in-law and four incredible grandchildren but the most special gift of all is the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ. Have a blessed Christmas season.

The most complete account of the b.irth of Christ is found in the second chapter of Luke. Mary and Joseph had to travel to Bethlehem in order to pay taxes. It was a journey of several days and when they arrived there were no more rooms for rent. Finally and innkeeper allowed them to stay in his stable with the animals. Among the sheep, goat, cows, chickens and other farm animals, the Savior of the world came into this world. Much of the world took little note of his arrival.

The third chapter of the book of Revelation tells us that Christ stands at the door of our heart and knocks, seeking permission to come in and make us a new creation. If we open that door the Savior will enter and will take up residence in our heart. So the question remains, can you make room for the King of kings? Have a blessed day.

You are looking at my favorite of the three trees in the house. There is the “big tree” in the living room, a table top tree in the office, and this six and a half foot narrow tree in the TV room. What makes this tree so special? Every year we have placed a photo ornament of each of the grand kids on this tree since they were infants. When they turn eighteen we place their last ornament on the tree. This year the youngest grandchild turned eighteen, so the tree is complete with seventy-two memories of Christmas past. Every ornament is a trip down memory lane and a reminder of the importance of family. Have a blessed Christmas.

I usually save this song for later in the marathon but I decided to move it up in the order this year. “O Holy Night” is a Christmas classic and has been covered by virtually every artist with vocal chords. Some have performed this song very well, but I don’t think there is a more appropriate vocalist for this song than David Phelps. You really need to listen to this through a good set of speakers.

Another classic that I usually reserve for late in the marathon is the Hallelujah Chorus. I love everything about the concept of this video.

May your Christmas and your heart be filled with the glory that is Christ and His amazing, saving grace. To God be the Glory!

One family Christmas tradition has been for the grand kids to help Nana bake Christmas goodies. The top image is from 2002 while the lower image is from 2018. The grandcrew are grown now and their schedules don’t always allow for baking with Nana. Hopefully they will get to spend an afternoon together this year.