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December, 2003 Here's My Heart... They were just a "nobody couple", from an obscure little village, engaged to be married. He was a carpenter by trade. She would be content to just be his wife, a housewife. Oh sure, they would have children, maybe several children. And, there would be houses to build and furniture to repair, diapers to change, meals to fix, and daily shopping to be done in the marketplace. But, oh, how life was going to change, for Mary and Joseph were to become the earthly parents of the Son of God, the Messiah, the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords. Their lives would change completely, and change forever, with the simple words, "You will give birth to a child, and you will call His Name 'JESUS', for He will save His people from their sin..." Over 2000 years have passed and once again we come to celebrate His birthday. It's Christmas time, the birthday of the Savior, the King, our blessed Lord. It is, without a doubt, the busiest time of the year. So much to do, and so little time. So many places to go, people to see, parties to attend, and gifts to buy. So much cooking to be done, and decorating, oh, the decorating! And for most of us, no matter how hard we try to avoid it, it is not only the busiest time of the year, but the most stressful, as well. Let me encourage you this Christmas season, to pause for a moment, go back in your mind to the little village of Bethlehem, take a look inside the cattle stall behind an over-crowded inn, or to a rolling hillside not far away, and "just reflect". If for only an instant, "just reflect". Gather your family around you, or your friends, and "just reflect". Happy Birthday, Precious Jesus! Thank You for giving us a reason to celebrate. Help us to keep our minds fixed on You, it if s even for a brief moment. Help us to be still for a while and "just reflect". From Anita and me... MERRY CHRISTMAS! Jim Clayton |