There is so much to be grateful for each year: our family, our co-workers, the clients who allow us to serve them, the fantastic country we live in- no matter how screwed up it seems at times; our military and police who keep us safe, the teachers who teach our children - and the ministers who feed our spirit. 

I'm sure you can look back at this year and find something to cherish, as well as something you wish you could forget. Perhaps you think of accomplishments you've achieved and hopes realized. Maybe you grieve the loss of someone close, or wish they were here today to share another holiday season.

My wife loves to watch The Voice on NBC. She invited me to watch Jordan Smith's rendition of "Mary, Did You Know"... Wow! It blew me away! The song speaks of Mary holding baby Jesus.. and asks, "do you know what he'll become." Each moment we have the opportunity to make a difference in the life of another. You are history in the making, right now. When some future person reads this history, what will it say of you?

As we relish this Christmas season, I ask you to consider the difference you make in the lives of those around you. Tell your family how much you love them.  Show your co-workers your appreciation for them. Make your client feel special. Hug a cop (ask them first). Thank a soldier for their service.  Spend some quality time with your kids to bake a treat for their teacher. 

And when you go to church, or gather in celebration with your friends and family, think about the moment years ago as Mary was holding a baby Jesus in her arms. Infinite God had become infant. The Giver became the Gift. The ultimate Gift of Christmas. My Gift. Your Gift. Be sure to give thanks for that Gift.

All of us at Connections hope you have a wonderful and joyous Christmas this year. May you find joy as you bless all you touch in 2016.

"Mary Did You Know"
(originally by Mark Lowry (lyrics) and Buddy Greene (melody))

Mary, did you know
that your Baby Boy would one day walk on water?
Mary, did you know
that your Baby Boy would save our sons and daughters?

Did you know
that your Baby Boy has come to make you new?
This Child that you delivered will soon deliver you.

Mary, did you know
that your Baby Boy will give sight to a blind man?
Mary, did you know
that your Baby Boy will calm the storm with His hand?

Did you know
that your Baby Boy has walked where angels trod?
When you kiss your little Baby you kissed the face of God?

Mary did you know..
The blind will see.
The deaf will hear.
The dead will live again.
The lame will leap.
The dumb will speak
The praises of The Lamb.

Mary, did you know
that your Baby Boy is Lord of all creation?
Mary, did you know
that your Baby Boy would one day rule the nations?

Did you know
that your Baby Boy is heaven's perfect Lamb?
The sleeping Child you're holding is the Great, I Am.