James

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

I'm having a hard time swallowing this verse these days...how is joy possible when going through trouble? I'm not experiencing any pleasure from my pain, God, and I'm not really sure about the persevering part. I guess I'm to take comfort in the fact that You are in control of everything in my life right now...and that you are going to work through this pain to develop in me whatever it is you feel I need......endurance? patience?? trust????

"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him."

Okay, God, whatever.......

CHRISTMASTIME IS HERE

The preparations are done...gifts bought and wrapped....cookies baked. Now I just wait for my family to arrive and celebrate Christmas. Last evening I had the priveledge to serve holy communion at my church. What a meaningful experience for me...it really put my Christmas in perspective. It is so easy to get caught up in all the hustle and bustle of the season and forget the simpleness and quietness of what this holiday is really all about...not only the birth of Jesus but the knowledge that this baby would be destined to die. For me.... As I anticipate the birth of my first grandchild in January, I reflect upon the bittersweet emotions Mary must have had...she truely was a special woman and I don't feel we honor her enough. I intend to spend some quiet, reflective times this weekend.....

HOW I REALLY FEEL ABOUT SHOE SHOPPING....

And we will worship the power and glory of shoes, and gaze in awe at the abundance of styles, colors, and heel heights, and thank the Creator for such a wonderful world!!!!!

A recent trip to Nashville took us to the Opryland hotel which is decked out in all its Christmas finery. Christmas lights and poinsettas galore...it's hard to not get into the spirit of the holidays while surrounded by glitz, sparkle, and, of course, a little "opry" Christmas tunes!!