If You Tend To Look Back...

Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? Isaiah 43:19

Do you perceive it? The newness coming in with this new year?

There is something deep and unspeakable within me that jumps at the thought. 2011 was very long. And dry at times. I would even use the word heated. This past year brought us loss and life-altering change.

But my difficulties did not exhaust God's power. They only made an opportunity for more to be displayed.

He has been so faithful.

In Isaiah 43, God encourages the Jewish exiles to not look or live in the past, but to look to Him. He is making a way in the wilderness. He is making a clear path where there seemed to be not one. He is ready to provide refreshment in the desert.

Like the Isrealites, my natural tendency is to look back. To sulk in past mistakes or old hurts. To sit in disappointment. I can beat myself to a pulp over poor choices or harsh words I've spoken. But God is always doing a new thing. Like his instruction to the children of Israel, His words ring true in my ears today.

Behold, I am doing a new thing, do you not perceive it?

Chadash, the Hebrew word for new, simply means fresh. Are you ready for a fresh start?

I'm ready.

Yet admist the excitement, newness is a vulnerable emotion. Many uncertainties. Many questions. But in the redundant words of Scripture, do not be afraid.

"Jesus is where you are, and you can trust that he will show you the next steps." -Henri Nouwen

There are several things on my 2012 list that have a shape, yet not a face. Several of which could cause me great anxiety if I let them. Money being one of them. But I am not afraid, for Jesus is where I am. He will show me the next steps.

What is it about 2012 that brings you anxiety?

If it is your health...Jesus is where you are.
If it is your marriage...Jesus is where you are.
If it is your job...Jesus is where you are.
If it is your children...Jesus is where you are.
If it is relationships...Jesus is where you are.
If it is money...Jesus is where you are.

I am praying for you today, sweet reader. Let us look forward with great hope and anticipation! He is doing a new thing! I can perceive it! He is making a way in the wilderness for you. He is bringing refreshment in the desert for you. This past year may have exhausted you, but not your God.

He is as fresh as ever and ready to display Himself in your 2012.

Do you perceive it?

Aww...You Shouldn't Have

Receive: verb \ri-ˈsēv\ to come into possession of : acquire; to receive a gift; to permit to enter: admit: welcome, greet

Receiving is so difficult, isn't it?

Seriously. Here's a dialogue... I'm person one. You're person two.

Person one: "You did a great job today. I was so impressed! You are so talented!"
Person two: "Aww well. It wasn't much. It was nothing really. I appreciate you saying that, but..."

I'm sure we all have responded in a similar way.

Or how about when we receive an awesome gift. Maybe a surprise. Something kind of big!

Person two: "Oh my goodness! You shouldn't have. You did too much. I don't deserve all of this."
I so often feel the need to do something back. (I noticed this about myself over the Christmas season.) It is hard to receive without having something to give in return. I feel the need to give a gift of "equal" value.

Receiving well can be very difficult.

Maybe it is because we live in a "tit for tat" culture? Maybe it is because I feel undeserving of anything good. Maybe it is because I feel the need to earn approval? I don't know.

When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. Matthew 2:10,11


The Wise Men...

Can you imagine how different the story would be if the Wise Men received this Gift the same way I receive gifts.

"Oh, the Son of God! The Prince of Peace?! For us? Naw. Not us! We don't deserve Him. He is so...so...perfect. And holy. Really, we shouldn't."

Those three, quasi-pagan, religious men were compelled to do the only thing appropriate at the sight of this Gift. They rejoiced. With exceeding joy. Exceeding. Like jumping up and down, happy, happy, exceeding JOY! The clap your hands really fast kind of joy!

And that was just upon seeing the star. Not yet little Jesus!

Can you imagine the display of joy when they laid eyes upon Him. (Oh, Matthew. I wish you had given more details!)

The Wise Men. They are noted for giving the three gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. But this morning as I ponder those wise fellas, I realize that their giving was simply a natural response to what God was giving them. Worship.

What a beautiful picture. They weren't trying to give a gift of "equal" value. They weren't trying to earn higher favor with God by showing off their best offerings.

No. They simply laid all they have before Christ. And worshipped.

I can never do enough. They only thing I can do is receive Him. Like the Wise Men. With exceeding joy. Laying all I have down.

And worship Him.

Do you have a difficult time receiving this life changing gift, too? Do you feel the need to somehow "earn" this Gift of Jesus? Maybe you don't feel deserving? Let's just stop all of that. And receive Him today. Greet the Son of God. Welcome Him. And rejoice.

A Servant-Hearted Christmas

Even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Matthew 20:28

Last night, I sat and made my grocery list. The week of Christmas adds quite unusual things to the page. For example, I will put at least one stick of butter in everything I make this week. And only once a year do I ever intentionally write "Snowflake Ritz" or "Peppermint Extract" on my list.

It makes me so giddy! My shopping list tells me that the time has come! Company is on the way! In a few short days my home will be loud with crazy, excited cousins, laughter, big hugs and way too much food. You and your family should come. Really. There will be plenty.

And as I prepare my home and bake my dishes, I can't help but think of Jesus coming to us; His underlying intention and motivation - service.

The Son of Man came to serve us.

As you are busy this week stirring your last batch of Chex Mix, wrapping gifts, dusting your home, changing sheets for guests, your grocery budget bursting with all of the extras, just remember...you bear the image of the Baby who came, not to be served, but to serve.

Serve (diakoneō)- to be an attendant, domestic, to wait upon a) to minister to one b) to wait at a table and offer food and drink to the guests c) of women preparing food

Look at that definition. The word used in Matthew 20:28 literally means to serve as one offering food and drink to guests. Sweet Jesus came to wait on us. To offer us the bread and drink that would indefinitely satisfy. His very character is that of a servant. Giving His life away for others.

"True service finds it almost impossible to distinguish the small from the large service. Where the difference is noted the true servant seems to be often drawn to the small service, not out of false modesty, but because he genuinely sees it as the important service. He indiscriminately welcomes all opportunities to serve. True service rests contented in hiddenness. It does not fear the lights and blare of attention, but it does not seek them either. Since it is living out of a new Center of Reference the divine nod of approval is completely sufficient." -Celebration of Discipline, R. Foster

This week, I pray my heart is to minister as Jesus did. Selflessly. Discreetly. Joyfully. Putting others' needs before my own. Giving my life away for my family and ultimately my Savior. Rejoicing in the Babe who came and paved the way. Proving to be the perfect example of service and humility.

Merry Christmas, sweet readers. I am unspeakably thankful for you. It is an honor to serve you here. I pray your home is full of the love of Christ this Christmas. Sweet Emmanuel. He is with us!

(And speaking of indiscriminate service... "Thank you! Thank you!" whoever put this on my porch. I love it.)


Blessings! Blessings!

Joseph, Thanks For Being A Stud.

In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. And all went to be registered, each to his own town. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manager, because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:1-7

This has been a crazy month. I've shared before that my grandmother (a.k.a, Mamaw) moved nearby our house this summer so we can care for her better. Which means her home of 52+ years has been on the market for months. I am so thankful to say we have a buyer and have been busy plugging away at a very long home inspection list, preparing the house for it's new owner. We have also been working with the Veteran's on Mamaw's behalf. I haven't had much experience working with a government agency before. Little did I know how challenging it could be. Brent, (a.k.a., my hero), has quarterbacked the business-side of Mamaw's care. A job he inherited when he married lil' ol me. Honestly, caring for a 90-year-old has been overwhelming and just down right hard at times. Paperwork and legal jargon....A long rollercoaster ride of yes's, no's and maybe's. It has been a taxing process.

And on top of all of that, it's now the holiday season. So much comes along with that, as you know. Lots to do. Lots to do.

I have read the Christmas story numerous times. Somewhat ignoring the first five verses of Luke 2. Reading them unintentionally and missing out on the details associated with Joseph.

Ah yes, Joseph. What a stud.

In those days a decree went out from Casar Augustus that all the world should be registered ... And all went up to be registered, each to him own town. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea... (v.1-3)

This registration was something he had to do because the government said so. No buts about it. Gotta do it.

So there he went, being a man and rejecting passivity, "to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child (v.4)." (A child of which wasn't even his. No, it was the Son of God. Just sayin'.)

(Can you imagine Joseph's stress level? )

And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. (v. 6)

Mary, really? Your water did what? Here?!

And she gave birth to her firstborn son. (v. 7)

I remember the birth of my first child. Every. Single. Detail. Every emotion - My excitement. My uncertainty. Oh dear - Can you imagine being in Bethlehem, an unfamiliar city, on government business and having a baby! No place to go. Only a stable. With animals.

Sweet Joseph. He was steadfast. Trusting not in the comforts of a hospital staff or a midwife. But his heart was steadfast, trusting in the Lord. The Lord equipping him with everything he needed that night.

Joseph encourages me and challenges me, as well. I often entitle myself to a blissful, stress-free Christmas. My home smelling of cinnamon, presents neatly wrapped, cards promptly sent, kids jolly, obedient and eager to help. I sometimes assume that hardship should wait until after the first of the year. Take the holiday off.

But hardship doesn't wait. Responsibility never rests. Business needs to be done. Even more so this time of year. It always has been this way. Even the very first Christmas.

I am thankful for Joseph's example. Diving in headfirst to his duties, most of which were inherited by marriage and imposed on him by the government. He didn't choose this. Yet, he didn't argue. (Reminds me of you, Brent. Thank you so much.)

He just did what a man needed to do.

So amongst the busyness of this season, I will not hang my head, feeling sorry that I am "too busy to enjoy." If anything, busyness is just part of it. Instead, I will anticipate the celebration as I scratch off my to-do list. The hustle and bustle only emphasizing the rest that December 25th brings.

Each strike of my pen a step closer to the night we light the last candle of Advent and rejoice that the baby, the Prince of Peace, was born.

Rockin' Around The Angel Tree

This year, my mother-in-law suggested that in lieu of buying for the adults in our family, we put our dollars together and use that money towards a family in need. Love. It. (And love you, Vicki)

So we did. And God was faithful to bring a family in need to our attention. We were able to buy for three family members. The boys learned so much from this act of service. (Setting aside your own desires in the toy aisle is quite an act of humility for a little boy!) This isn't something they could have gathered from me reading to them during a breakfast devotional. I am so thankful to the Lord for allowing them this experience. I pray this seed of service and giving will continue to grow in their heart.

Angel Tree ministries is a common gift-giving program this time of year and is made readily available at mall's and local retailers. Angel Tee is a Prison Fellowship program that connects parents in prison with their children through the delivery of Christmas gifts. In most cases, local church volunteers purchase and deliver gifts and the Gospel to children in the name of their prisoner-parent. The deadline for purchasing gifts is tomorrow, actually. Where has the time gone? Click here for more details.

I'd love to hear of similar things you are doing with your family this Christmas...

Too Connected...We're Disconnected?

Tuesday night Brent and I tucked the boys into bed and began settling into our evening routine. I popped our usual bowls of popcorn and turned the TV on for The Biggest Loser (whoop whoop!). Brent needed to download a few songs on ITunes, so his laptop was up and running. He sat with his computer open on his lap, head phones in his ears and the Ipod nearby ready to load. I needed to catch up on a few emails during commercials so I set my Netbook on the end table beside my spot on the couch. My cell phone chimed informing me of a new text message, so I grabbed my phone and began replying back to my friend.

We heard footsteps on the stairs. Then a little voice, "Man, there's a lot of technology going on down here. So much light and electricity."

Grant. Wasn't he asleep?

I walked him back to bed, tucked him in once more then sat down at my place on the couch.

Just called out by my own son.

"Is this what my boys will remember of their parents? Mom and Dad on separate ends of the couch totally enthralled in technology?"


Is this the new "My Dad read the newspaper all the time" memory? Or the the "I don't remember my mom and dad ever kissing" memory? I have those memories from childhood. Do you?

Gosh, I love Brent. Oh. My. Word. Yes. We have a great marriage. Really. Tuesday evening wasn't a true representation of our relationship or our hearts for each other. Yet, try telling that to my eight-year-old who will only remember what he remembers. Amen?

That dern Internet. I have such a love/hate affair with it. Such a blessing yet such a distraction. It both sucks life and brings it.

What if Grant had walked downstairs to find his parents in the middle of the couch together, sharing a bowl of popcorn and talking. Or even seeing his mom and dad sharing a big blanket reading our own books quietly. Less noise. Less "light and electricity." What if turning off all of the technology let Brent and me make a little electricity of our own. Oh yes, I just typed that. Isn't it so TRUE?

Are we so connected that we are disconnected?

Disconnected from the Lord and each other?

Oh, how the Spirit has been talking about this. For sometime now. I find it funny God will finally grab my attention through an 8-year-old little boy.

Lately, I've been drawn to scripture about silence. To scriptures about drawing near. I am led to books about silence. And drawing near. I want to discipline myself in the art of quiet. And strengthen my ear's Holy listening.

Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. James 4:8

During this season of Advent, I have thought much on "quiet". Can you imagine the 400 year period of God's silence? Geez, that must have been excruciating. But hindsight we all know that this period was a good thing. We know now that the redemptive sound of a baby's cry would soon break the silence. The gentle coos of our Savior, pleading us to come. To draw near.

Silence meant preparation. Silence increased the hunger of God's people.

Silence draws us nearer to our God.

I will do anything it takes to draw nearer to Him. Less noise. Less light. Less electricity. Even if it means shutting down this blog for a season (gasp)...I will do it. (Although I'm not excited about the idea of that. I love this thing. Too much, I know.)

So. There you have it. The rantings of a tech-junky. Confessions of the "too connected".

This Advent, let us pull away and unplug a bit. Silencing our lives - as if embracing the bundle of a new born babe. Let us draw near our hearts and stare and the face of the One who came to save us.

Let us all disconnect, so we can reconnect to the Light.

The Light of the World.

December Ideas: A "Twist" on Advent Dinner

Advent is a season in which we are invited to watch and wait for God's arrival among us - making it a time of intense yearning and deep longing. It is a time filled with hope and anticipation.

Advent is the time where we take heed of the words of Jesus, "Therefore, keep watch because you do not know on what day your Lord will come." So during the days and weeks ahead, may we pay very careful attention, lest when he finally arrives, we miss him altogether." -J. Branch

Once a week, we plan a family meal in honor of two things: Lighting the Advent Candle and hanging the week's Jesse Tree Ornaments. Each activity preparing our hearts and re-centering our focus on Jesus.

Our Advent dinners are a little "fancier" (pronounce real country - Fain-see-er) than usual. I pull out Mamaw's Christmas china and make a fun dessert (I rarely make dessert)! It is during dessert we read Scripture and let the boys decorate the Jesse Tree.


A shoot will spring forth from the stump of Jesse, and a branch out of his roots. Isaiah 11:1

A Jesse Tree is decorated each week, with ornaments or objects that represent Old Testament events from Creation to the Birth of Jesus. The ornaments are traditionally handmade, but I've not had the time to make my own - so I bought a kit at the Christian bookstore. Maybe next year. Each ornament is added everyday during Advent, with explanations of the symbols and a brief verse of Scripture from the story represented. We find ourselves more consistant to hang several at one time.
And just to clarify that my family is completely cheesy, we finish our evening singing songs and dancing. Oh yes we do. Twistin' for Jesus! THE BOYS LOVE THIS. LOVE IT. (so does mommy) Last Sunday, after we had finished the official festivities of the night, the older boys sat at the table singing songs together. Euphoric.

It is a sweet and unifying time. We plan on inviting a couple of families to join us for our dinner and dessert, as well. The boys have each chosen one family to come and join us. How fun! They are so excited!

"Advent is a season in which we watch and wait. It is a time in which we are filled with hope and with longing - hope that our Creator will finally intervene, and longing that he will enter into this world and set everything right once more; restoring all things to their creation intent." -Jim Branch 2010

Oh, I couldn't agree more. This is one thing I love so much about Christmas. So many things about it are a small taste of "all things set right." Wholesome music. Family. Selfless, excited giving. Pulling the attention away from ourselves and gearing it towards others. Casting our eyes and energy to their appointed place - Jesus.

Does your family celebrate Advent?

Today While Tending Your Flock...

An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them and they were terrified. Luke 2:9

Something stopped me this morning.

I never realized (or had forgotten) that God shone His GLORY to the shepherds. I remembered the angel of the Lord appearing to them and later the multitude of angels, but in between these two occurrences, God revealed His Glory.

Glory /doxa/ Shekinah - the glory of the Lord. A bright cloud by which God made manifest to men His power and presence on earth. Splendour, brightness, magnificence, excellence, preeminence, dignity, grace, majesty; the kingly majesty which belongs to him as supreme ruler; majesty in the sense of the absolute perfection of the deity; a most glorious condition, most exalted state.

Can you imagine? Seriously.

I love it that God chooses the Shepherds. The lowly little shepherds. They couldn't have been very old. Maybe teenagers. Inconspicuous. Unnoticed. Humble. The nameless shepherds.

And He shone His Shekinah Glory to them.

He revealed the birth of Deity to them. He could have chosen anyone.

This morning, I am thankful that God chooses the lowly and inconspicuous. That might mean me. Or you.

We may not be much on the grand scale of American pop culture. We aren't English Royalty. Or public figures. But to God, we are worthy of His Glory.

Today, while tending your flock, how might God manifest Himself to you? Keep watch.

December Ideas For Your Family (Brent - no peeking!)

A few weeks ago, I received an email from one of my dearest and best. It was full of amazing, meaningful, warm, and Christ-centered cozy ideas for Christmas. Over the next few days, I thought I would share with you some of those ideas, along with what the Crenshaw's are planning as we move toward the big day!

Today, the kiddos will begin preparing a surprise gift for Daddy!! The older boys are memorizing a passage of Scripture to recite to Brent on Christmas morning. (I cry at the thought of this moment.) This surprise is major "hush hush" which makes the boys all the more eager to memorize it! They love the thrill of a surprise! I have chosen Luke 2:8-20, but your family could chose any passage. I may have Lukey (age 3) memorize just one or two verses, as twelve would be too many.

If you want to join us, here's how we are breaking up the passage for memory...

Luke 2:8 - And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.

Luke 2:9 - An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

Luke 2:10 - But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.

Luke 2:11 - Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.

Luke 2:12 - This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

Luke 2:13 - Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

Luke 2:14 - "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

Luke 2:15 - When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."

Luke 2:16 - So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.

Luke 2:17 - When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child,

Luke 2:18 - and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.

Luke 2:19 - But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.

Luke 2:20 - The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

HOW FUN! I hope you'll share some of your ideas, too!!

How Do We Find Balance?

I got a voicemail the other day from one of my dearest friends. She lives in Florida and was heading into town when she called. I want you to hear/read this. She said (hold on - listening to her message and typing quick!...)

"Hey Becky, Becky! Hey sweet friend! I just read your One Thing post on my phone...it really struck a cord with me based on today. I got up at 5:58am. I didn't get all of us ready and out of the house until about 2 o'clock. My question is ... when your working as hard as you possibly can do you just stop and say enough is enough? - I need to go be with Jesus? Do you just not do the work? Do I just stop doing what I'm doing? What do I do? What do you do? What should that actually look like? I know I need do the work and serve my family. But I know I need be with Jesus, too. I guess I'm wondering... How do I do both at the same time? When it's crunch time, ya know? When the rubber meets the road? OK. Call me back. Love you!"

Oh sweet friend. Your message sits at the heart of this series - At The Feet of Jesus. Aren't we all wondering the answer to the questions in her voicemail? How do we live at the feet of Jesus in November 2011? What does that look like? How do we make it all happen? - all the chores? The yard work? Paying bills? Calling your grandma? Choosing meaningful Christmas gifts? Grocery shopping? Making beds? Attending school functions? Helping kids with homework? Serving in the classroom? Driving kids to practice? Keeping your boss happy? Oh...and eating balanced meals. Cooking balanced meals for your family? Making balanced meals for friends with new babies? Exercising? Maintaining healthy friendships? Creating lasting memories for your children? Oh, and your husband (or wife)!? Pursuing your mate and loving them well.

Where does Jesus fit into all of this? And resting at His feet!?

Great question.

There must be practical ways to intentionally sit at the feet of Jesus, yes. And we will discuss some of those. But here is what I personally try try try to remember...I need to not try and fit God in to the balance of my life. He isn't Someone to be balanced...He is the High Wire. He holds everything together. He is the One who is holding me up. He gives me a place to stand. I wouldn't have one thing to be balancing if it weren't for Him - the giver of every good and perfect gift (James 1:17). He is it. He isn't to be balanced in my life - He is to be the King of it.

Mary...sat at the Lord's feet and listened to His teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. Luke 10:39,40

You know one thing that strikes me about this whole story? Picture this with me...Jesus was reclining at the table in Martha and Mary's home. He was visiting with them both. Every word from his lips potent with life-altering truth. Mary was at Jesus feet, listening. Martha was in the kitchen, distracted. IF MARTHA WOULD HAVE SETTLED HERSELF DOWN, SHE TOO COULD HAVE LISTENED TO WHAT JESUS HAD TO SAY.
We aren't talking about big houses here. This was most likely one big open room. Martha very well could have CHOSEN to sit at Jesus feet...while she prepared the meal.

My Bible footnote says this, sitting at the feet of Jesus is "a disciples proper place." As a follower of Christ this is the position we are to take in life...at the feet of Jesus. But look here...In the Greek the word for feet is pous and is used here as a metaphor for disciples listening to their teacher's instruction.

So for us, today, November 23, 2011, this is what it means to sit at the feet of Jesus...to listen to His teaching and instruction.

Does this mean we sit in a chair at the kitchen table with a large cup of water, two cups of coffee, an Ipod and a Bible? Yes.

Does this mean while we mash potatoes over a hot stove we listen to a sermon that we DVR'd from last Sunday? Or download on your computer? Yes.

Does this mean we meditate on a verse while we drive to work in the mornings? Yes.

Does this mean that we pay attention to our own hearts as we read the little devotional book to our children at bedtime? Yes.

Does this mean that while we scurry to get out of town for a holiday trip to see family that we are mindful that a Living God watches over us and is our help - even in the little things? Yes.

Does this mean that we get on our knees before we go to bed and talk to the Lord about our day, confessing sin and entering into His sweet presence? Yes.

A disciples proper place...at Jesus' feet. Choosing His teaching over the distraction of the world. I like it.

And we said on Saturday...it is a day to day, second by second choice. And this choice is in fierce competition with "much serving."

But one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will never be taken away from her. Luke 10:42

In light of Thanksgiving, I get tickled to think that Jesus is the only Bread where we don't need to watch our portion size. He is the good portion. Gobble Him up this Thanksgiving. No portion control necessary.

Sit at His feet, dear disciple. Even in the hustle. For it is our proper place.

And Happy Thanksgiving from my home to yours. (I can't get my third to retire his Halloween costume. Oh well.) Love to you all...

Going Home {Awesome Guest Post!!}

Going off to college is weird. For 18ish years, your life has pretty much looked the same. And then, in one day, you move off to the university of your choosing and life is different and weird.

But you know what else is weird [and I would submit is weirder than leaving for college]?

Going back home for the holidays.

You are changed. They are changed. Your room has changed. Your friendships have changed. And sometimes it feels like you have to squeeze and finagle back into a spot that used to be really comfortable.

I’m doing my own weird “go home for the holidays” this year, as I’ve been living in Edinburgh, Scotland working with Crossroads Church for the last six months. Though it’s been a while since Mom and Dad’s was my full time residence, it doesn’t mean it is going to be simple.

At the core of who you are, you are still you. What annoyed you before will annoy you again [with a vengeance, probably]. What you loved before will make you want to stay home forever- for example, a full fridge and clean folded clothes. [Can I get an amen?]

So let’s all circle our chairs up and have a chat about how to do this thing well.

#1. Be patient
Listen, I know you’ve changed. I know you feel like a different person than when you left. And truth be known, you are in a lot of ways. And while you’ve called Mom anytime you got sick or talked with Dad about the football scores, it doesn’t mean they know all that you’ve been through. They may ask questions like, “What’s that boyfriend’s name again?” when y’all broke up in October or “When is your calculus final?” when you’ve been taking statistics. It’s okay when that happens. It really is. [I still have people make Irish jokes all the time when I have been living on a COMPLETELY different island for half of a year.] Just be patient.

#2. Be kind.
Your siblings missed you. You may not know it or feel it, but it is true. They missed you. So be nice to them. Don’t jump right back into being the angsty teen in your home. Be cool. Treat them the way you treat your hallmates or roommates at school. And try to watch the Thanksgiving Parade with them without making derogatory remarks about the cartoon character they love. [Not to mention, you’ll get to see Ingrid Michaelson perform, so you win too.]

#3. Obey the rules.
A curfew? Are you kidding me? I know. It’s hard. But you are only there for a few nights for Thanksgiving. Breathe deep, calm down, and come home on time. If it makes you insane, have a talk with Momsie and Popsie before Christmas break. [A good report card will help with that conversation, I’m just sayin’.]

#4. Be fun.
You have the choice. I know you do. You can be frowny and sit on facebook all holiday break long. Or you can play Wii with your Dad and do a puzzle with your Mom and play outside with your siblings. Be fun. When you leave to go back to school, you want them to miss you, not celebrate your exit.

#5. Talk.
What have been the highlights of the first part of this semester? What has been hard? What have you learned about life, God, friendships? Talk about this stuff. Don’t be the strong silent college kid that alienates yourself from your family. Jump right back in and tell your people about your life.

#6. Be thankful.
Let your actions say what you feel on the inside- grateful for a loving God, a family, a roof over your head. Say thanks all week long. It will go farther than you know.

Seven is my favorite number, so I’m going to let you create #7. What else do we need to remember when going home for a holiday break?

**We’ll pick one commenter to win a free copy of Annie’s book, From Head to Foot! **



The winner will be announced on Wednesday! FUN!

Annie Downs is a freelance writer in Nashville, Tennessee and she is currently flying back there from Edinburgh, Scotland. (Seriously! Today!) It has been an HONOR to correspond with her via email. Her heart beats strong for Jesus, college-age ministry and the twenty-somethings out there. (I am pulling for her to come to Knoxville and lead a weekend retreat with CRU!) Like her on facebook and learn more about her time in Scotland (and the rest of life) on her blog (one of my favs). Thank you, Annie! xoxo

Leave a comment!

One Necessary Thing for the Holidays

busy: (adj) \ˈbi-zē\ engaged in action : occupied : being in use : full of activity : bustling : foolishly or intrusively active : meddling : full of distracting detail

Did ol' Merriam Webster have me in mind when writing this definition? There are days that I fear these words mark me. Days my blog bio should honestly read:

Becky Crenshaw: A busy and intrusively active wife. Mother of three and full of activity. Lover of Jesus and meddler of distracting detail.

Busyness. It eats my lunch. Driving its hectic teeth into my planner. Busyness bosses me around. Spouting out orders. Busyness wreaks havoc on my household. Busyness. Arguably one of the greatest curses of our culture. Busyness. The motivation for the following passage of scripture...

Now as they were on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her to help me." But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her."
Luke 10:38-42

I had read this story before. I knew the contrast of Mary and Martha. Numerous books have been written on this passage. The parallels have all been made. But. Oh but. When the Lord uses a "familiar" passage to speak to my soul... the words come to life - breathed fresh from Heaven that very day.

Martha, Martha. Oh we would have been friends.

We might have served on the same committee, you and I. Or shared the same recipe. I betcha we could have thrown one heck of a party. Martha, Martha. You wouldn't have needed Mary. I would have been in the kitchen with you - your right-hand-gal.

I get tickled at Martha, all sassy. I'd bet she spoke with a hand on one hip, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her to help me." Occasionally, I paraphrase a bit making a character's voice a little more personable. Martha doesn't need my help. Nope, she's animated all on her own. Can't you envision her frustration? Motioning to her sister in the floor. With clinched teeth, Get up, Mary. We have company. What are you doing in the floor? Have you lost your mind?

Martha, Martha.

This time of year, we have to be a bit Martha, don't we? Soon we, too, will be welcoming family and friends into our homes. Preparing dishes, decorating, shopping, addressing cards, school programs, staff parties, holiday travel. And we must do these things. None of them are bad. It's when they all get thrown in together withing the span of 25 days that things get sticky.

This culture and its \ˈbi-zē\ pace, pins us against the wall and slaps Martha's apron on. Get going now. Serve serve. Bustle here. Bustle there.

Is it possible to live out a Martha schedule with a Mary heart?

Is it possible to approach the busyness of the holiday season at the feet of Jesus?

Yes....But one thing is necessary.

And Mary had chosen it.

Mary, please tell us! The Martha's and I need to know. What did you understand that your sister didn't? Share your secret! What one thing did you choose? My holiday depends on it....

Come back for the next post as we learn about this one thing that was so necessary.

Today, do Jesus words speak to you? Could you replace Martha's name in this passage for your own? "_______, ________. You are anxious and troubled about many things."

Take My Life

I appeal to you therefore, brothers [and sisters], by the mercies of God, to present you bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Romans 12:1 (brackets mine)

Body: sōma - referring to Christians as whole persons, both body and soul belonging to God; the complete man (Vines)

This new year, the Lord is putting an emphatic call on me to offer myself as a living sacrifice, my entire person, to Him. He wants all of me. My entire life. Nothing withheld.

(What am I still withholding, God? Show me.)

And so fitting, as I am wired for worship, He gives me a song. Sweet Jesus, how he knows me.

Can you take a couple of minutes, refresh the page to start the song again, and worship?

Take My Life

Take my life and let it be
consecrated, Lord, to Thee.

Take my hands and let them move
at the impulse of Thy love.

Take my feet and let them be
swift and beautiful for Thee.

Take my voice and let me sing
always, only for my King.

Take my silver and my gold
not a mite would I withhold.

Take my moments and my days,
let them flow in ceaseless praise.

Take my will it is Thy own
It shall be Thy royal throne.

Take my heart it is Thine own
it shall be Thy royal throne.

Take my life and let it be
consecrated, Lord, to Thee.

Take my hands and let them move
at the impulse of Thy love.

***

And these verses weren't included in this version of the song, but this is my prayer, as well. Especially for this blog and any ministry I do. Fill me with messages from you, Lord.

Take my lips and let them be
filled with messages from Thee.

Take my intellect and use
every power as You choose.

(I'm guessing all the angels in Heaven sound like Kari Jobe. Love her.)

I am praying for you today.

Happy New Year.

Are You Making 2011 Resolutions? Read...

For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him. Psalm 62:5

If you are anything like me, you are ready to pull your Christmas decor down, deep clean your house and get back into rhythm. I loved Christmas this year. Oh my, yes!

But I love structure and predictability, too. Two things the holidays aren't quick to offer.

Oh, the New Year. Such a stake in the ground. A mark in the road - Transition. Change. Turning.

And every December's end, I bombard myself with an overwhelming list of goals for the next year.

Most of which I'm not very consistent with after February.

Do you know how many times I have read the Bible through in a year? Do you know how many times I have stopped in Exodus? Oh the irony. I guess I'm still wandering around in the desert.

Goal: the end toward which your effort is directed. Aim.

As I read over the definition of a goal, I recognized that determining a goal is not a flippant thing, at all. My efforts need to be reserved for only important things. Outside of my already established routine, I don't have much effort to give away.

So determining my goals needs to be solely directed by the Holy Spirit.

What are we aiming for this year, Lord?

So the next couple of days, I am spending much of my prayer and reading on this alone. Goals. I want to hear from Him on what we need to be doing this year.

For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence. Psalm 62:5

So I will wait.

And my pen will not make one strike without hearing from Him.

I could easily fill up a page with "Eat more vegetables. Read a new book every month. Memorize a new scripture every week. Volunteer at the mission. Do more crafts with the boys. Train for a new race. Send more greeting cards. Watch less TV. Cut back on sugar and caffeine...."

None of these are bad. They are all very good things, actually. But where does the Lord want my efforts directed?

My life is not my own. My goals are not my own. My body is not my own. My hands are not my own. My time is not my own. My children are not my own. My marriage is not my own. My house is not my own. My money is not my own.

Everything is His.

Will you wait on the Lord to direct your 2011 efforts?

Christmas Goals 2010

Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace among men. Luke 2:14

We have arrived at the threshold of Christmas. December 23rd. The hustle and bustle is arguably at its peak - food is being prepared, last minute gifts purchased, traffic is absolutely crazy and I am finding myself getting a little lost in its shuffle.

Yesterday I sat down at the kitchen table holding a green sharpie and a Christmas tree post-it note.

Staring at my to-do list, I said to Brent, "I am feeling overwhelmed."

It read: *make Oreo balls *fold laundry *shake out rugs *drop off presents to Amanda *get turkey from Mamaw *wrap three gifts *vacuum out the van *drop off dry cleaners

(It's amazing what will overwhelm a person. Silly, I know. )

Brent took my list, grabbed my sharpie and marked off four items. "I'll do these."

Ahh. Sweet man of God. What a relief it was for him to take those off of my holiday plate.

This morning I have reflected on yesterday's to-do list and Brent's sweet intervention. And I think I best be setting goals for the next two days or I will miss it all.

Christmas goals 2010.

I sense that the Lord wants to take my Christmas tree post-it, grab hold of my green sharpie and scratch it.



He wants to say, "I'll do these. You do this: *abide in me *enjoy my presence *sing Christmas hymns of praise *hug your children *kiss Brent *read the Christmas story *serve your family *refresh in my Spirit *celebrate *simplify."

Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace among men. Luke 2:14

So my goals for the next two days: Glory and Peace.

#1 Glory - I want to give glory to God in the highest.

I want to make every effort to give him honor and praise. Every table setting, every dish prepared, every present wrapped - for His glory. Every hug, every spoken word, every song sang - for His glory. I want this to be the Christmas of washing feet. Let me serve my family, both young and old - for His glory. Let my hands be His. Oh thank you, Jesus.

#2 Peace - I sense deeply within me that I need to lay hold of my peace. The enemy wants it, you know. He does not, I repeat, does not want your focus to be Christ. He wants to steal your focus - make Christmas about busyness and stuff. Don't do it. Make a conscience effort right now. Your focus is Jesus. My focus is Jesus.

Within two days I spoke with four people...people anxious about relational drama at the holidays. Family can be hard. Lay claim to your peace. Jesus is your focus. Love them. Tell them how happy you are to be with them. Forgive them. Wash their feet. Let love and peace be your motivation.

Let the fruit of the Holy Spirit be your Christmas dish this year - Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control! Galatians 5:22

Who could resist?

May my and your Christmas be marked by Glory and Peace this year.

Happy Birthday Jesus and Merry Christmas to you.

Lord, I ask you to bless all those who have read this today. Fill them with your Spirit. Let them abide in your great love for them. Let them rest in the simplicity of a baby in a manger and all that Christmas was meant to be. Thank you for Jesus - The Word made flesh (John 1:14). In Jesus Name, Amen.

The Chief of Sinners

Are you feeling discouraged about a lost loved one? Read read read...

1 Timothy 1:12-17

I thank him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he judged me faithful, appointing me to his service, though formerly I was a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent. (vv. 12,13)

Oh Paul. How I relate to this. Do you? Were you (or are you now) an opponent of the gospel? Do you know someone who is? Is your faith growing weary that someone in your family, a friend or a neighbor will ever come to faith in Christ?

Oh, do not be discouraged. If Jesus can save Paul, then Jesus can save anyone.

If Jesus can save me, Jesus can save anyone.

But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. (v. 14)

His grace overflows (hyperpleonazō) for those who act ignorantly in unbelief.

This word overflows means exceeds abundance.

Glory to God! Read that again. What does that look like? Exceeding abundance?? An exceeding abundance of grace! Thank you, Lord.

Who are you thinking about? Is your spirit growing faint in faith? Oh friend, no no. Be renewed. His grace exceeds abundance for the lost.

Stop and pray now. Pray for them. Renew your faith.

This [is] a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. (KJV v.15)

I just love the way this is phrased in the King James. This is a faithful saying! And worthy of, not partial, but 100% acceptance. (And I feel like I give Paul a run for his money on the chief sinner part).

Jesus Christ coming into the world to save sinners. Bottom line. This is what we are celebrating on Saturday. Hallelujah!

But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the chief, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those were to believe in him for eternal life. (v.16)

Patience (makrothymia) means long suffering. Slowness in avenging wrongs.

Jesus isn't sitting with his finger on the trigger. He is patient with us. He is slow to avenge our wrongs. I am so thankful.

To the King of ages, the immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. (v.17)


Read this last verse again. O Praise Him!

I'd love to know what passages are speaking to you today.

How could I be praying for you today? Did you think of someone today when reading this?

Share?

Speaking of sharing, let me introduce you to Jonah - a little acorn of righteousness. Sweet little angel. This picture was shared by my blogsphere friend, Kristen, as one of her favorite things. I'd say so!

Jonah is singing, "Happy Birthday Jesus". This is so precious I could cry. (I bet you did Kristen!!)


Oh, those cheeks!! Thanks so much for sharing!!

I am so thankful that you came and read this today. Love you all.

These are a few of YOUR favorite things...

Thanks so much to all of you who shared your favorite things with me the past couple of days.

"From home to home, and heart to heart, from one place to another. The warmth and joy of Christmas, brings us closer to each other." Emily Matthews

You have shared your heart and your home. I have enjoyed it so much!

The joy of Christmas brings us all together. Thank you Jesus!

Sweet Dawn sent this picture in. I wish I could snuggle up on your couch, Dawn, and share a hot cup of joe.


And these are adorable. I mean...


The expressions are priceless. Dawn, I am in love.
Magical.


This weekend we have been in Memphis visiting Brent's brother, Brian, and his family.

Christmas began for me when we arrived.

These little cousins make a very joyful noise...

Grant. Ethan. Austin. Olivia. Luke. Eliana.

The Twinshaws and the wives went out for a Christmas-y night on the town.
I heart my family.


One of Erin and Brian's traditions on Christmas morning is the "Pickle" gift. Erin will hide this ornament somewhere in the tree and the first to find it gets an extra present!! Cute!


Now this next tradition is one we will adopt. You will love it, too.


Every year an extra stocking hangs on this Memphis mantel.

An extra stocking for Jesus.


Each person in the family gives Jesus something back for Christmas. They write down what they want to give and stick it in the stocking. Erin keeps the papers placed inside from year to year.

I enjoyed looking back on what they have given Jesus.

Last year, Austin gave Jesus all of his heart.


If it is financial stress, relational strife, future plans, they write it down and give it to Christ. How awesome to look back the next year at what the Lord has done.

Luke and Eliana are discussing what to give this year. This is a deep conversation.


Here are a few fun things you all shared over the past couple of days...

Tonya: I love the entire month of December...we have a visit from our advent elves who create "messes" throughout our house each morning. They help count down the days until Christmas and return with Santa on Christmas Eve. And I love the Christmas Eve service...makes you remember why we are here and what we are called to do!

Sara: Oh, there is so much to love about this season, but I think the joy, anticipation and excitement as our little girls try to wait patiently for the Birthday Party of the year... Jesus' Party!!!

Alex: Music and decorating!

Donny: Our family Advent wreath.

Sharon: Music!!

Tisha: Family photo cards!

Susie: Cookies! I'm only half-way serious. Since I was a little girl I have loved stockings and Christmas trees. These are the only two things I've managed to put out this year!

Debra: Music, stockings, pulling old ornaments from my childhood out of the boxes (yup, one is 40 yrs old), and 11p Christmas Eve services (esp. now that it's pretty impractical to attend...but one day I'll be back!)

Dawn: I LOVE that love89 (our local radio station) plays CHRISTmas music for a whole month!!!!! I LOVE decorating the tree and sitting in front of it each night reliving the memories of each CHRISTmas and each ornament! I LOVE watching my friends and family open the gifts I have found for them!

Melissa: Each kid has their own tree in their room. My son's is a white 4 ft tree and it has a bit of a retro feel to it with silver garland. My daughter has a little 2 ft tree that is super girly and modern like her. Bright pink ornaments. I let them decorate them so the tree may look a bit ornament heavy on one side or they may all have the same type of ornament but it is their tree and they have fun decorating it. They also get an new ornament each yr that goes on the main tree which when they move out they will then have all those to decorate their own tree. That is what decorates my tree all the ornaments I got growing up.

Amy: My favorite things are the kids' ornaments. They get a new one each year, and it normally has something to do with what they're loving that year. For instance, this year, Elizabeth actually made an origami crane, and Cody turned a couple of LEGOS into ornaments. Usually, we buy something that they love, but they were creative this year! :) They now get to hang their own ornaments, too, so I love looking at the tree & seeing where they thought the perfect place was for each one!

Sue: My favorite thing is definitely the Christmas tree lit! I love it, I wish I could keep it up year round. I like to sit in the living room and just look at it all lit up! I love the lights!

Love, love, love to all of you!!!!

These are a few of my favorite things...

Only NINE days left until Christmas. NINE. Can you believe it?

Thank you all so much for sending your favorite Christmas carols my way. I uploaded (or is it downloaded) all the songs I could find to our play list. Unfortunately, it is a limited selection.

But nevertheless, enjoy!

Today, have a look around the Crenshaw home. We aren't glamorous over here, but I love our Christmas-y abode.

Oh Christmas Tree...

...Oh Christmas Tree.

Sunday morning as I sat drinking coffee with Jesus, this baby came crashing down. It was a horrendous sound. And sight. We lost at least half of our ornaments. Some of which were treasures. Little boys were devastated. But after a trip to Duncan Donuts and a Tree Trimming trip to Walmart, we are back in business. I think I like it better the second go around.

P.S. I tried the "spray on snow" this year. Cheesy, I know.

Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall. ~Larry Wilde, The Merry Book of Christmas



Instead of making a ton of candy this year, I am making homemade granola! Yum. Thank you Family Fun.



Oh, ho the Mistletoe, hung where you can see....



Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Luke 2:10

My absolute favorite thing.

I know it may be a lot to ask, but if you would like, I would love to post a few of your favorite things. If you have pictures you'd like to share, send them as an attachment in an email. They will post here on our next blog. How fun!!

My email is becky.crenshaw@uscm.org

If this is too much trouble (we are all so busy right now!!) post a comment telling us about a few of your favorite things at Christmastime.

"From Home to home, and heart to heart, from one place to another. The warmth and joy of Christmas, brings us closer to each other." Emily Matthews

I am so thankful for you today. So so thankful.

He Is Near To The Brokenhearted

I am so blessed to still have two living grandmothers. Eighty-nine and Ninety-one. You have met Mamaw Arden, my most valuable inheritance, but never before have you met Mildred, my dad's mother.

She has always been small and feisty. A water aerobic goddess, a skilled gardener and devoted wife.

After my grandfather passed of Lou Gehrig's disease in the eighties, she remarried.

Everett.

A stud of a man. A former train engineer and southern gentleman. A ballroom dancing, chivalrous stud.

They were quite the couple.

But time catches up and eventually death makes its way it every front door.

Even at Christmastime.

Saturday, I sat next to Mamaw on her couch. Lately, I can see in her eyes she is inching away.

Holding her frail hand, we sat and listened to Everett's daughter.

I heard the news with her. Both of us for the first time.

"They are moving Everett from the hospital to a new home, Mildred. It is a good place. A lady welcomes folks into her home to stay a while. She cooks for them and cares for them. There are nurses there. It is very warm and loving. It's a good place. You can go and visit him anytime. I hear she is a good cook, too. Maybe you can go have a meal with him. Doesn't that sound nice, Mildred?"

"Well. I guess."

I chime in, "It sounds great. Can I book my stay for when I am ninety? What a great alternative to rehabilitation." I turn and look at Mamaw, "Maybe he can stay there until he feels stronger. Then he can come home."

Mamaw looked down, "He'll never come home."


Her Christmas tree twinkled next to the fireplace. Lights bright on the mantel.

Mocking us.

"Its a hospice house, Becky."

Silence.

Hospice. A hopeless word.

The reality of the news started to sink deeply.

He'll never come home.

The eyes of the LORD are toward the righteous and his ear toward their cry.

When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.

The LORD is near to the broken hearted.
Psalm 34:15, 17-18

His eyes are upon my grandmother. He knows her frailties. He hears her cry.

Emmanuel has fresh meaning this year. God is with her.

Near to her broken heart.

He is the one who gives her peace and comforts.

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are. Hebrews 4:15

He understands her grief. He came, specifically, to experience it.

This is a very difficult Christmas for many of you.

The joy of the holidays is painful in the midst of illness, loss, cancer, divorce, depression or death.

But know that he hears your cry.

His eyes are upon you.

He came to this world to deliver you.

He is near to the broken hearted.

Cry out to Him.

Emmanuel: God is with us.

God is with my grandmother.

God is with Everett.

Emmanuel: God is with you.

Hear From You Friday - Christmas Carols

Happy Friday!!!

I pray you are well, refreshed and full of Jesus!!

Today, I'd love to hear from you....

Starting this weekend, this blog will become yours for a while. I want to hear about what you are reading, your favorite passages of Scripture, your favorite Christmas carols, your family Christmas traditions...I will even ask for a picture of your Christmas tree or favorite holiday decor! (If you want to share) How FUN!

So today...let's build our play list.

My FAVORITE Christmas carol is What Child Is This.

I love it, not because of its rhythm or tune (although both are beautiful), but because of the depth of it meaning.

Take a moment to read and reflect. Especially verse #3. Whew. Powerful.

What Child is This?

Verse 1:
What Child is this, who, laid to rest
On Mary's lap, is sleeping
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet
While shepherds watch are keeping?

Verse 2:
This, this is Christ the King
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing.
Haste, haste to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.

Verse 3:
Why lies He in such mean estate
Where ox and lamb are feeding?
Good Christian, fear: for sinners here,
The silent Word is pleading.

Verse 4:
Nails, spear, shall pierce Him through,
The Cross be borne, for me, for you.
Hail, hail, the Word made flesh,
The Babe, the Son of Mary!

Verse 5:
So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh;
Come peasant, king, to own Him.
The King of Kings salvation brings;
Let loving hearts enthrone Him.

Verse 6:
Raise, raise, the song on high,
The Virgin sings her lullaby:
Joy, joy, for Christ is born,
The Babe, the Son of Mary!

Oh! The Silent Word is pleading with you today. That precious little baby. The Word of God made flesh...pleading for your heart.

It gets me every time.

So what is your favorite carol? It doesn't have to be deep. I also love Holly Jolly Christmas. I think it is the happiest song ever written. :) I wish our world could really be like that. "Say hello to friends you know and everyone you meet!"

Your turn. Send me an email (becky.crenshaw@uscm.org), a Facebook message, text me (if you have my cell number) or post a comment here. I will add your song to the Cup of Joe play list at the bottom of the screen. Fun!!

I'm feeling Christmas-y!

Let our loving hearts enthrone Him today.