Christmas 2011?

Last week I wrote a post about daring to dream. This past week I and my family have taken a step in this direction, to take a desire and dare to dream it.

We have talked for years about spending Christmas in New York City. My mother is from there and has many fond memories of Christmas in the city. She came all the way from Florida to spend Christmas with us, and the idea came up again. This year I decided to push for a date. Why not dare to make a dream a reality?

So, God willing, I and my family will spend Christmas 2011 in New York. We've set the date and will now work toward this goal, to make a dream a reality. And my first step is to commit this to prayer and put it in God's hands, because you would not believe how God loves to make your dreams come true.

I've seen him do it in my life many times, even with dreams I'd forgotten about. But he didn't. As a teenager I had many dreams, small and large. And over the last ten years I've watched God bring almost all of them to reality. Some were small things like visiting a city in Europe that had the same name as my maiden name. And just this year, to design bookcovers. That one I'd totally forgotten about until my mother reminded me. And just this month, another dream came true. That one I'll share with you soon.

God loves to delight and wow us. He knows our hearts, he knows our dreams, he knows not only what we need but what we long for. When he is the center of our lives, our dreams become possible because they are centered in him with potential. They are opportunities to live in his grace and proclaim his glory.

And in the revelation of our dreams we see they are only possible because God is the One who brought them to reality. He not only created us, he created these dreams deep in our hearts so that one day he could show us just how precious we are to him.

So, I'm daring to dream and trust God with the outcome of a dream to spend Christmas in NYC. And if I can dare to dream for something like this, I realized I can dare to dream of a future with my sweet hubby walking in faith, and knowing God intimately. I will dare to dream this too.

How about you? What are you dreaming of?

Praying and believing,
Dineen

Charlie Brown? Hope of the World.

I grew up waiting each Christmas season for two special TV shows to appear on our old television set. Yes, I grew up in the “Dark Ages”, according to my teenager. There weren’t video recordings nor hundreds of channels with millions of re-runs. You had one chance, once a year. That was it.

I anxiously awaited, A Charlie Brown Christmas which was followed by The Grinch That Stole Christmas. I would sit in the basement, next to the aluminum Christmas tree with the weird color wheel turning. Mom, would bring down the freshly popped corn which was coated with the most divine candy coating and we would make popcorn balls. With popcorn ball in hand, I sat criss-cross apple sauce on the floor and watch as Charlie Brown and the gang lit up our small television.  

I was always partial to this particular seasonal show over all the others, including Rudolph and the Grinch, because Linus always told the Christmas story. The real story from the Bible.

Luke 2: KJV

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

------

Even as a child of eight this story filled my heart and life with a smile. I knew the truth. I knew who Jesus was and even at that young age He had a grip on my soul. And at that tender age He knew I would turn run away from Him.

Yet, He never let go of me. He watched over me during the dark and dangerous years of clubbing in Las Vegas. He commanded angles to walk with me even when I was arrogant, vulgar, mean and completely self-absorbed.

He looked down on this girl of eight and delighted with me as I smiled at Charlie Brown, knowing full well the many hurting and broken people I would leave in my wake of selfishness. Oh but, He never let go.

He relentlessly pursued me to return home. I found my way home, gently guided by the love of Jesus.

I returned ashamed and broken. Knowing full well I deserved to die for the pain I caused in so many lives including my own.

The enemy worked my shame.

I am not worthy to be forgiven.

I’m so broken, I could never tell anyone else about God.

I’m utterly so messed up, I can’t possibly be loved by anyone.

I can never make up for the havoc I have wreaked.

Worthless, insignificant, useless empty.

 But that story of the babe in the manger is THE story. That child wrapped in swaddling clothes became my Redeemer. I was made free.

From shame.

From failure.

From the lies.

So on this Christmas, with all that has been redeemed in my past, with all that the Lord has done in my life in the past year alone, I will acclaim the King, born of a peasant. Born in humility. I will honor Him with my life.

To Him I will give my worship, adoration, praise and thanksgiving. I will celebrate this Holy day, Christmas like a girl of eight. With delight in my eyes and happiness in my heart.

Merry Christmas, Love Lynn

Weekend Devo — Dare to Dream

People seem to be having more difficulties these days than usual. This time last year I was shuttling my daughter back and forth to radiation treatments. And not too long after Christmas, Lynn's husband lost his job like so many have since the economy tanked. I'm sure as you read this, your own trials are playing out either in memory or in reality. None of us is immune.

But profound things happened in the midst of those trials. I'll be the first to say there have been some pretty deep valley's this year. One ongoing for me and my family, but even in this time of frustration and one morning's rant at God, I knew I loved my Jesus more than ever. I knew that I had grown and changed.

Such sweet adoration in the middle of my tirade—couldn't be from me but the working of the Holy Spirit. So what could I do but thank God for the trials that brought me to the place that ease of life never could?

Perhaps this is one of our constant tests of faith, to see our trials as God's tools forming us closer to the image of Christ and to praise God in the suffering and seek the fruit our pains. I know my current journey isn't over, but in submission I've found peace, understanding, and new purpose in prayer for my daughter.

We are the family of God, bonded together by the death of God's Son and united in our struggles. Again, I'm in awe of the way God works our life experiences and sufferings with a synchronicity, joining one to another. In the trenches we find true meaning.

Together.

And in perseverance in the presence of God's faithfulness, we can dare to dream. Dream of what can be, what could be, what will be. Dream of our lives with God, when all our tears are wiped away and joy is complete. Dream of a place where those we love and pray for know Jesus as we do.

This next year, let's allow God to show us what's beyond our imaginings. Let's pray like warriors determined to win. Let's dare to believe like we never have before. 

As Christmas comes full of promise, let's dare to dream. 

Praying and believing,
Dineen

Are You Ready for Christmas?

I know I’m not—still have shopping, baking, and a birthday to prepare for! So much to do along with work and taking care of the family. Are you nodding along with me?
Keeping our focus on Christ this time of year is tough for anyone, so I’m not going to talk about the busyness that threatens to steal the meaning of Christmas from us. I’m sure you’ve read enough on that topic already.

I want to address the difficulties that crop up this time of year in spiritually mismatched marriages. Specifically the challenge to keep Christ in the holiday especially if you have children. I know when my girls were young, this was quite a challenge. My sweet hubby has always been like a kid at Christmas time, so introducing more than my childhood nativity scene became a real challenge.

But each year I found small ways to give my girls a sense of the true meaning of the season through special activities and traditions. Yet I remember being near tears one year, thinking my two little ones only saw Santa. Minutes later the two of them stood in front of me singing Happy Birthday to Jesus. Thank you, God!

Keeping a family together is tough enough without the complications of trying to keep peace during the Christmas season. Here are a few tricks that have helped me along the years.

1. Be flexible. Christmas Eve and Day services can be a point of conflict. I know it was for my family. I wanted us all to be together, but my sweet hubby just didn’t want to go to church Christmas Eve. And going without him or alone, was just…well…lonely. I found other ways to participate at church during the month of December to celebrate Christ’s birth. At home we also light a candle on our advent wreath each Sunday and on Christmas Day. And for those years that either Christmas Eve or Day landed on a Sunday, I went to the morning service.
2. Compromise. Decide what matters most and be willing to bend on the rest. If you’re spouse sees you willing to adjust in one area, he or she may be willing to “return the favor.” And remember to approach any situation with prayer and respect. Our unbelieving loved ones will be more likely to reply in like manner.
3. Relax. Remember that God knows your heart, and we can honor Christ’s birth many times and many ways throughout the year. Sometimes having unrealistic expectations only serve to cause more stress for you and your family. This goes back to being flexible.
4. Pray. This probably should be number one. Whatever area that seems to trip you up each year, bring it before God now and prepare. Don’t give the enemy a way in to mess with your family and your Christmas celebrations. You might just be surprised how God works out a difficult situation for you. Bring God into your Christmas planning early. Not at the last minute.

I hope these tips help alleviate some of the stress typical of a S.U.M. If you have ideas that have worked for you, please share them in the comments. What better way to celebrate Christmas here at S.U.M than to give the gift of wisdom and caring to one another?

And, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
Praying and believing,
Dineen

Thankful Thursday & Christmas Traditions

Welcome to another Thankful Thursday! This month we continue to meet at Women Taking a Stand. I'm (Dineen) filling in for Lynn this week, which is majorly cool because I get to tell you what I'm thankful for. Can I have more than one? LOL!

First and foremost, I am thankful for Lynn and for her obedience to God to start this ministry. And she let me join in! Yes, I am truly blessed. Which brings me to the second thing I'm thankful for.

YOU!

If you're reading this blog, I am honored to the tip of my toes to serve you. Some of you leave comments that bless me beyond words. Sometimes your comments are what carry me through the day or week because you remind me I'm doing what God has asked me to. And on the rough days, especially some recent ones with my daughter, you were a bright spot in a difficult day. THANK YOU!!!

Now, how about some Christmas Traditions? What traditions make your Christmas extra special? I hope you'll read my post over at Laced with Grace about the Miller Christmas Traditions. Would love to hear about yours!

Praying and believing,
Dineen

The Christ Candle

Welcome to the lighting of the Christ Candle. All the candles are lit! Isn't it glorious! I hope you've enjoyed this tradition as much as I do and will make it a special part of your Christmas each year. It's a wonderful way to be reminded that Jesus truly is the reason for the season.

Christmas Eve (after sundown or Christmas Day)
Color: White
Theme: Christmas
Suggested Scripture Readings: Luke 1:68-79, Luke 2:1-20

Lord, we praise you for this glorious day. Your Word came and became flesh in the tiny baby. You walked among us as a man and died for us as our Savior. You deserve all our worship, love, and praise. Mighty Counselor, Prince of Peace, Holy God, You are wonderful! We love you! Amen.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

OUR SAVIOR IS BORN!

May God bless you richly for the coming year!
Much love,
Dineen

A Blog Chistmas Card

The icy cold of morning,
the snowy storm of night.
Christmas love is warming
at the fire's light.

Sweet songs of yuletide
drift through the Christmas cheer.
Hearts sing like an angel
for peace has come so near.

Dawning is the gift
in the form of one small boy.
Given us so long ago,
assuring lasting joy.

Lynn and I wish you all much love, peace, and joy for Christmas and the New Year!
Merry Christmas!

Praying and believing,
Dineen

Weekend Devotion:Fourth Sunday of Advent

Welcome to the fourth Sunday of Advent. If you've created a wreath of your own for the first time this year, I hope it's a tradition you will hold onto. My first three candles have burned shorter. And now the fourth one is lit. Almost time to light the Christ Candle! May the Prince of Peace fill your year with new revelations of his presence. Be blessed!

Fourth Sunday of Advent
Color: Purple
Theme: Peace
Suggested Scripture Readings: Isaiah 9:6-7, John 14:27

Lord, thank you for sending your Son to be our Prince of Peace. We praise you for this wonderful peace you give us by the indwelling of your Holy Spirit. And mostly, we thank you for the promise of salvation, an eternity spent in the presence of Jesus Christ, our Saviour. All glory is yours, Amen.

Praying and believing,
Dineen

A Big Waste of Time... Have fun...

This is one of my favorite Holiday time-wasters.... I hope you can blow a few minutes with me. See if you can guess the Christmas carol.

(ANSWERS)

There Once was a Man Who Didn't Believe

There was once a man who didn't believe in God, and he didn't hesitate to let others know how he felt about religion and religious holidays, like Christmas. His wife, however, did believe, and she raised their children to also have faith in God and Jesus, despite his disparaging comments.

One snowy Christmas Eve, his wife was taking their children to a Christmas Eve service in the farm community in which they lived. She asked him to come, but he refused.

"That story is nonsense!" he said. "Why would God lower Himself to come to Earth as a man? That's ridiculous!" So she and the children left, and he stayed home.

A while later, the winds grew stronger and the snow turned into a blizzard. As the man looked out the window, all he saw was a blinding snowstorm. He sat down to relax before the fire for the evening. Then he heard a loud thump. Something had hit the window. Then another thump. He looked out, but couldn't see more than a few feet.

When the snow let up a little, he ventured outside to see what could have been beating on his window. In the field near his house he saw a flock of wild geese. Apparently they had been flying south for the winter when they got caught in the snowstorm and couldn't go on. They were lost and stranded on his farm, with no food or shelter. They just flapped their wings and flew around the field in low circles, blindly and aimlessly. A couple of them had flown into his window, it seemed.

The man felt sorry for the geese and wanted to help them. The barn would be a great place for them to stay, he thought. It's warm and safe; surely they could spend the night and wait out the storm. So he walked over to the barn and opened the doors wide, then watched and waited, hoping they would notice the open barn and go inside.

The geese just fluttered around aimlessly and didn't seem to notice the barn or realize what it could mean for them. The man tried to get their attention, but that just seemed to scare them and they moved further away. He went into the house and came back out with some bread, broke it up, and made a breadcrumbs trail leading to the barn, but they still didn't catch on.

Now he was getting frustrated. He got behind them and tried to shoo them toward the barn, but they only got more scared and scattered in every direction except toward the barn. Nothing he did could get them to go into the barn where they would be warm and safe.

"Why don't they follow me?!" he exclaimed. "Can't they see this is the only place where they can survive the storm?" He thought for a moment and realized that they just wouldn't follow a human.

"If only I were a goose, then I could save them," he said out loud.

Then he had an idea. He went into barn, got one of his own geese, and carried it in his arms as he circled around behind the flock of wild geese. He then released it. His goose flew through the flock and straight into the barn - and one by one the other geese followed it to safety!

He stood silently for a moment as the words he had spoken a few minutes earlier replayed in his mind:

"If only I were a goose, then I could save them!"
Then he thought about what he had said to his wife earlier. "Why would God want to be like us? That's ridiculous!"

Suddenly it all made sense. That is what God had done. We were like the geese - blind, lost, and perishing. God had His Son become like us so He could show us the way and save us. That was the meaning of Christmas, he realized!

As the winds and blinding snow died down, his soul became quiet and pondered this wonderful thought. Suddenly he understood what Christmas was all about, why Christ had come.

Years of doubt and disbelief vanished like the passing storm. He fell to his knees in the snow, and prayed his first prayer:

"Thank You, God, for coming in human form to get me out of the storm!"

~Author Unknown

Peggy from Amazing Grace ~Mazes, Messes, Miracles sent this to me yesterday. Thank you Peggy!!