Category: missions

Steps Toward a Merry Christmas When It is Looking Anything But Merry

As I was shopping for my items for our shoeboxes for Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child, tears came to my eyes. I thought of the kids of Haiti and how little they have and how spoiled I am. As Americans we are so amazingly blessed materially but forget to be grateful and give back. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; Luke 12:48

But there was another reason tears came to my eyes. The holiday season is difficult. It is for so many-I am one of them. Years ago, my father had a terrible stroke at a Sunday School Christmas party that changed everything. Since then I struggle with joy during this obvious season of joy. I am not alone.

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“Why spend all this money going on mission trips to other countries when there is so much work to be done here?”

Matthew 28:19-20 (NASB) Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Joy in the Mourning

For weeks after dad’s funeral, I sang this song. I thought I would share it with you. If you have had a difficult summer, know that God is good. Even in our worst moments, there is no denying a cross and a Savior that provided freedom. My dad is experiencing true freedom in Christ right now. So, today I celebrate my dad’s first month in heaven. Time will heal my broken heart, and a dwelling on God’s Word that reminds me of the peace I know through Christ.