Preparing for Sunday

Obviously, this is not an ordinary Easter weekend.

Yet, the order to stay home doesn’t change the fact that this is a Sunday not to be forgotten.

The day Jesus rose again!

Just think on what that moment meant.

What it still means!

Life, death, and eternity all changed forever.

That’s worth celebrating!

It doesn’t take a crowd.

Nor fancy clothes.

Nor tables piled with food.

This celebration only needs one thing.

Our hearts.

True worship of God and His Son Jesus.

Not an agenda.

Not speaking ritualistic words.

But the honest, humble, grateful heart.

Because it was my sin which nailed Him there.

It was my voice that denied knowing Him.

And it was my debt He suffered and died for.

Mine.

That is the incredible, awesome truth of Jesus.

He paid it all for me.

And He did the same for you.

I can’t think of a better reason to celebrate!

And I’m starting today.

Just in simple ways to praise and thank my Lord Jesus.

Hebrews 13:15 KJV — By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

Birthday Season

Today is another birthday.

Our Bell is 19!

Monday we celebrated Anne’s upcoming birthday.

She will be 17.

Last week was Jase’s birthday.

Every year we celebrate birthdays along with Christmas.

Each year we’ve done it a little different.

I remember one year when a large portion of our extended family would be traveling. We decided to give all three a combination birthday party. I baked three cakes and we lined them up to sing and blow out candles.

Last year was unique. Anne was turning 16 so around lunch time on Christmas Day, our oldest daughter and her hubby transformed our house into a birthday party and we had cake, ice cream, and Anne opened gifts.

It doesn’t seem like a year already.

Where did my youngest’s girl’s 16th year go?

How did our Bell get so close to 20?!

Yet, I’m so thankful for it all.

Each year is a milestone.

Every person a gift from God.

What is better than to stop and praise God for each individual than by celebrating their birth?

At our house we call the month of December the “Birthday Season”.

Which I love.

I have the privilege of sharing the joy in the birth of each of our three youngest children with the insurmountable joy of the birth of my Savior.

Truly December is the Birthday Season!