“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14 NIV

Do you remember as a kid, the expectant waiting, the anticipation of Christmas morning? As the tree went up, the ornaments were hung, the decorations scattered around the house, and presents appeared under the tree – the anticipation grew and intensified. We, the four kids, were told to sit at the top of the stairs, no peeking, until called down. The anticipation was about to be fulfilled!

This year we seem to be just wishing for the year to be over and done. Many of our normal Christmas traditions are being suspended or radically modified. Some of our family members are far away. December is here and we need to get that child like joy and anticipation back, seriously!

Join me this holiday season as we shift our focus from the troubles surrounding us: COVID-19 infections and deaths rising at an alarming rate, lock downs, full time mask wearing to keep all safe, and restrictions to travel and group activities. Instead let’s focus on Jesus, on the wonderful gift of a Savior to the world.

Let’s fix our eyes on Jesus who has already overcome the world!

Jesus

God with us, born in a humble stable.

Offering salvation, only He is able.

Shining the light of life for all who believe.

The gift of peace, we have only to receive.

The living water that quenches our souls.

The strength that conquers and consoles.

That foundation of rock on which we stand.

Holding us securely in His righteous right hand.

The bread of life that nourishes and feeds,

With abundance and love that meets our needs.

The Messiah, the Christ, the Son of God.

We bow in praise, by your glory awed.

This week, this month, let’s shift our focus to Jesus. Let’s anticipate the celebration of His birth with joy and singing, with praise and adoration, and with thankfulness and child-like wonder.

I thank God for each of you! And I thank you for joining me this week as we regain our Christmas anticipation by focusing on our Lord Jesus.

Christmas blessings!

A special note: a fellow blogger, Genna Stotts, is doing a special prayer calendar in December to challenge parents to pray for their children each day. Check out her Facebook link that supports this effort with a topic and scripture reference at https://www.facebook.com/underHisAuthority