Christmas brings back so many great memories for many people every year. It is a time to remember our childhood and our special family times. We are blessed to have wonderful Christmas time memories and new ones we are making with our family and especially our grandchildren. Everyone has someone they have lost and Christmas seems like the pain of loss can be worse. As Christians we do have the hope of seeing them again and that is very comforting. Christmas can also be a stressful time with many demands on our time.

How can we move through this busy Christmas season and not get caught up in the rush?

Keep Christ at the forefront of all your Christmas celebrations. As the saying goes “Jesus is the reason for the season.” Too often we forget the true reason for the season and leave Jesus out of his own birthday celebration! Remember him in all you do at Christmas and all year long.

Focus on the good memories. We all have loved ones who have passed away and miss their presence. Remember the good times you shared with them. Maybe keep a tradition that they loved and make it a part of your celebration to honor them. Don’t forget to love those who are present. Love those around you, spend time with them and make new memories.

Hope for the future. Take time to reflect on the past but also look with hope to the future. Christmas is a time to celebrate the fact that Jesus came to earth. He was the hope that many were waiting for- our Savior. He is our hope of a new life here on earth and life everlasting.

May this Christmas bring with it a hope of peace, joy and a bright New Year to you and your loved ones.

Merry Christmas to all our friends and family. A special Merry Christmas to our Finding His Purpose family and May God Bless you in 2019.

John and Cynthia Miller