Inspiration

Most Holy & Majestic Father,

There's so much "hype" around Christmas time. I have to admit that I enjoy all the jolly jingle and festive frolic as much as anyone. But, Lord, as I enter into the fast-paced season ahead, help me walk slowly and quietly.

Let me stop and listen to the angels sing of the greatest news ever told!

Let my heart, mind and soul join the chorus, "Glory in the Highest!! The Messiah has been born!"

Among all the bright sparkling lights and cheery holiday tunes, let my spirit travel once again toward Bethlehem to honor and worship Jesus, my King, The Prince of Peace, the Lord of Hosts, Mighty Counselor, Son of God, the Lamb. All Your love, mercy and power somehow made flesh in the tiny form of a humble baby born in a manger. Let me worship the only One who is able to take our sin away and reconcile men and women with God once again!

Amen

A king had to leave for a long journey, and he wondered who he should leave in charge of his kingdom while he was gone.

One day when he was out riding alone, a woman appeared in the mist. "Soon you will find the one you seek," she said. She waved a hand, and suddenly the king found himself in the simple clothes of a common woodcutter.

The king was puzzled, but he rode on.

Human beings are not born with self-control. We have to learn what to do with the mad that we feel. Learning to control ourselves is a long, hard process. It happens little by little. In fact, it is something we work on all through our lives.

- Fred Rogers

Sometimes you have to let go of the picture of what you thought life would be like to find joy in the story you are actually living.

- Rachel Marie Martin