 Do you remember that little song we sang in Sunday School and Bible School when we were kids, Dear Reader? A cautionary tale wrapped in a catchy tune.
Praise God, sometimes as an adult it can remind us that we never know when affirmation will unintentionally slip from a child's lips.
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I'm kind of a late starter, Dear Reader. Whether it was having kids, graduating from college, or starting a career, I've lagged a little behind my friends. Now sometimes I feel like I'm playing catch-up...
Happy New Year, Dear Reader! I hope your gatherings and celebrations were spectacular, and that you are looking forward to an equally spectacular year.
 El Shaddai, Lord God Almighty, you are ever faithful! You promised I would see your Son made manifest among us, and He's here! I praise your name for your goodness and faithfulness to your promises.
Lord God, we have wandered near and far, searching for what only you can give. We have sought redemption through empty words and useless actions. Forgive us for our weakness and lack of faith. Thank you, El Shaddai, for loving us anyway! Thank you for seeing the frailty of your children, and choosing to send us a Savior...Your only begotten Son! Thank you for the example He will give of loving you first, and each other second. Hallelujah and Amen! O, Most High God, we have waited ages for this night! How blessed we are to be part of the blessing. I can't wait to see the shepherds' faces!
Dear Father, we're spruced up and tuned up to do our best for you. We've chosen only the best songs of praise to announce the arrival of your Son to His new home. Everybody is in fine, strong voice, ready to join together to glorify your name. Be with us, El Elyon, our Sovereign Lord! We are humble in your midst, and thrilled to do your work. Let your voice of love and grace stream through ours this night. Would you look at those two? They look like they're straight off the farm. The girl looks like a child herself, barely old enough to be having a child of her own. This trip to the big city of Bethlehem may be the most exciting thing they ever do.
So many Jews, most of them looking out of place. Do they even understand what a census is, and how it will be used? Sometimes I'm not sure myself. By the looks of them, even if they understand why the "big, bad" Roman government wants a headcount, they resent it. Just look at the faces of those who have come to be registered. Worry, doubt, maybe some fear. Some of the younger ones look at me, in my soldier's uniform with my ledger and sword, with defiance in their eyes. The old ones, resignation written all over them, like they've given up hope for any kind of deliverance. Will any of them find what they're looking for in Bethlehem? Jehovah God, I know I'm just the messenger, but this girl is so young. This gift is so wondrous, but it comes with great trials and sorrow. How will she ever be able to bear all that it will bring?
I know, I know. It's not my job to worry. Sometimes it's hard for me to stay in my lane. I see the joy, the absolute rapture your word can give your children, Father, really I do. But you've given me the ability to also glimpse beyond the moment. Forgive me, Lord, for letting the frailness of their humanity become a distorted lens for your greatness. Thank you for letting me be a part of your plan, and the blessing that comes with it. El Shaddai, our Heavenly Father! You have seen my deepest longing, and you have answered my prayer. In your great love, as a parent for His child, you have listened to the heart of your daughter. You have come near and blessed me.
Can my spirit praise your name any more, El Shaddai, or be filled with greater joy? I do not know how to thank you for the gift you have placed within me. I do not deserve your grace. Help me nurture and encourage this child to be all you are creating him to be.  For years early in November, I've asked people whether they were cooking (hosting) or traveling for Thanksgiving. I probably won't do that this year.
This year has brought so many changes to so many people. But this year especially, I hear Mama's voice asking... For months we've been inundated with reports and numbers, haven't we, Dear Reader? It started with reports from the other side of the world that didn't seem to have much affect on us.
Gradually, the reports and numbers spread from foreign shores to our own backyards, bombarding us 24/7 through various mass media. And none of it seems to be encouraging. But, Dear Reader, there is some good news during these tumultuous times. |
Hi, my name is Alice. A Way with Words is about sharing faith,
fun, & encouragement. Thanks for stopping by! I hope you find a little something to take with you. 
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