A Good Word Wednesday #21
Words of hope, help and encouragement for you today
Good Words of the Week: Presents and Presence
If you had to choose your favorite Christmas gift you have ever received, what would you say? A bike? A ring? A car? What’s the favorite present you’ve given someone?
It’s a tough question, because like most people, we’ve given and received a lot of amazing gifts throughout our lifetime.
As a child, I remember getting stuffed animals from my parents and soft, cozy handsewn flannel pajamas from my grandmother. Our stockings were filled with fruit and nuts and a small toy. In the 1960s in a rural Arkansas pastor’s home, the presents weren’t extravagant or expensive, but they were just right.
One reason why Christmas isn’t my favorite holiday is because I don’t like to shop. The season seems to demand it. I’m not good at finding just the right item, for the right person, at the right time for the sale price. Just not happening for me.
And while giving and receiving are good things, I’ve learned through the years that it’s not the presents that matter most, but the presence of the family and friends you spend Christmas with. And even greater than that, is spending it in the presence of the very best present of all — Jesus Christ. I hope he is the center of your celebrations this season.
One of my favorite things about Christmas is enjoying my lighted, decorated Christmas tree first thing in the morning when it is still dark out and all is still. It’s just me and my coffee. And a lit apple-pumpkin candle. This is my view from my cozy chair.
Did you notice there aren’t any presents under the tree yet? (I have them. Just don’t enjoy wrapping them!) Please join me in this time of Advent and breath in the quiet. The stillness. Make time for holy moments. Enjoy His presence.
Wednesday in the Word
“The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood. We saw the glory with our own eyes, the one-of-a-kind glory, like Father, like Son, Generous inside and out, true from start to finish” (John 1:14 MESSAGE).
Good Words I Recommend
A Good Song: Surely the Presence of the Lord is in This Place
A Good Site: Ann Voskamp website I mentioned one of Ann’s books last week. Treat yourself and visit her site and discover lots of good stories, photos and freebies to enhance your Advent and Christmas season.
A Good Blog: Not to brag (well, maybe a little), but I think it’s a good blog. Worthy of Grace blog I was honored to be asked to write a guest blog on this website especially designed for women. Take a minute to click and then subscribe to their free helpful and uplifting weekly newsletter. (Thank you Alexandra Stewart for this opportunity to share my words with your lovely group.)
A Final Word
I mentioned last week that I looked forward to singing with a multi-generational choir at my church this past Sunday. It was truly a worshipful experience. (Here I am with the yellow arrow pointing to me.) Click here to enjoy the recording. The music starts about 9 minutes in. Please ignore my lack of rhythm but sing along and worship! Christmas music at FBC Duncan. What special ways are you celebrating Christmas this year?
It’s not quite finished yet, but take a peek at my new author website and let me know what you think! DeAnna's new author website What would you like to see included on these pages?
And here is my new and developing author Facebook page. Please come like me and be my friend there. It’s where I will share updates concerning my writing projects. DeAnna's author facebook page
Grateful for you! Have a good week. Until next Wednesday —
Share a good word (and good presents and presence) with someone today.