Heart Choices: 2012-12-02 -->

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The Blessings of the Christmas Season


It was the first Sunday of Advent.  As we gathered together to worship at my home church, the first candle was lit; the candle of prophesy.  Pastor Dan read from the Bible.

Isaiah 9:6

21st Century King James Version (KJ21)
For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder. And His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

How amazing is that?  The Messiah, the Promised One would be born.  And He was born.  We celebrate that day each year.

"It is nearly unbelievable -- the wonder of the Advent of the Promised One, longed for through generations, now arriving in the context of human history.  This Christmas season, be sure not to lose the wonder of the Wonderful by getting mired in the mundane."  ~ Pursuing the Christ, Prayers for Christmastime by Jennifer Kennedy Dean

I purchased this small Kindle book by Jennifer Kennedy Dean for $.99.  It's a great deal and the short chapters help to keep me focused on the true meaning of this Christmas season.

And the little ones ...

This time of year is a wonderful time to be working in a school environment.  The children are so excited.  We decorated our classroom.  A small Christmas tree sits in the corner and the little three year olds get to decorate it again each morning.  It's not a Christian school but I have to admit that I pray for each one of these precious little ones. :)

We had a special visitor to our classroom this week.  Firefighter Mike gave a talk to the children.  He wanted them to see firefighters as their friend so they wouldn't be afraid.  The kids got to try on the mask and hat and even his boots.  They loved it!


Firefighter Mike was actually Heidi's dad.  He is so good with the kids.


They giggled as they tried on the pieces of equipment.  I was amazed how well they sat and listened intently.

My three year old personal trainer Sam is keeping me on track with my exercise.  He is too funny!  As I was leaving school on Friday, he called out to me.  "Miss Debbie, did you do your exercise?"

I laughed because I can't disappoint him and I have to be honest. So instead of going on the bike that stays still, I hop on my treadmill.  I told him it's a machine that let's me run but I go no place.  I think he understood.  And he added "Miss Debbie, I love you."  My heart melted and I smiled.  Thank you Lord for these little ones.

#612 Celebrating the first Advent Sunday
#613 Getting into the Christmas spirit
#614 Spending time in the Word each morning
#615 Coming home each day to the sound of Christmas music, candles lit and tree lights on
#616 A husband who tries to make our home extra special this time of year
#617 Celebrating my mother-in-law's 88th birthday
#618 Co-workers who are such fun
#619 Seeing the delight in the children's eyes as they listened to firefighter Mike
#620 Decorations for the Christmas season
#621 Peppermint mocha at Starbucks
#622 Beautiful weather in Phoenix
#623 Looking forward to a visit with my friends from San Antonio
#624 Watching Kirk Cameron in "Monumental"; a must see documentary

Keep on counting those every day blessings.  I can guarantee it will change your perspective.




Blessings and love,


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