Thursday, December 26, 2013

Dear God,

Several years ago you taught me the real gifts of Christmas are not those resting under the Christmas tree. Today as I reflected upon Christmas Day with my family I realized our living room was filled with extraordinary gifts that had tags with your name on them.

There were extraordinary gifts of healing from estrangement, some that lasted for years.  There were extraordinary gifts of physical healing from ovarian cancer, breast cancer, heart disease, Histoplasmosis, a broken neck, skin cancer, a premature birth, and Endocrine maladies.  There were extraordinary gifts of emotional healing from addictions, self loathing, depression, and more.  There were extraordinary gifts of transformation, life changes, overcoming great difficulties, and surrendering multiple hurts.  There were extraordinary gifts of hope, courage, compassion, and discernment.  There were extraordinary gifts of faith that were part of every other kind of gift.  All these gifts had your name on them, O God, your name.

As I quietly reminisced by the light of the Christmas tree, I sensed your glorious presence and gave thanks and praise.  For every gift is a gift from you when we open our eyes to the amazing work of your hand, your mercy, and your grace.

Wondrous God,
thank you
for the blessings
of Christmas.
Thank you
for quiet moments
of reflection
and the awareness
of your
living presence.
Thank you
for the
extraordinary gift
of faith,
the best gift
of all.

Love, Andrea