This year I made the commitment to make most, if not all, of my Christmas presents!  I don’t think I realized what work it would be!  But I have loved every minute.  I love to the challenge to be creative.  I love the time to actually think about people and what things they would like.  I love giving myself the time to think about and pray for each person as I am making their gifts.  This Christmas has meant more to my heart than any other Christmas so far- and less to my pocket book!

There is such freedom in this for me.  In the past I would get bogged down on how much I can spend on each person.  This has allowed me to take a little money and make a really fun, unique present for people.

Of course I cannot post lots of pictures right now, because people that I am giving them to might see them.  But I promise in the days after Christmas you will see them.   Here is one, just for fun:

It’s taken a lot of time and energy, but it has blessed me.  I really look forward to giving this year.  And it has given me time to think about the Lord.  He knows me.  He  knows what I love and what I need.  I know that He takes His time in thinking about what things to give me and what things I really don’t need.  He doesn’t just say, okay so I have to give this, this and this person something….. i will run to Wal-Mart and grab something.  Thankfully.  He sweetly, tenderly, lovingly gives me just what I need, when I need it.  And there is no greater gift to me than Jesus- the gift of hope and redemption.

So, what is Christmas meaning to you this year?  I pray that you have had time to reflect on the true reason we celebrate Christmas- the birth of our Saviour.  I pray too that you have had time to love on those loveys in your life.  I pray that this season has been more to you than hurriedly shopping store to store trying to make the quota.  If it has, there is time left.  Slow down.  Love the people around you.  Listen to the Lord and let Him love you.  The birth of Jesus was no small thing in history.  It’s personal. It was just for You!  God loves You and sent His Son for You!

Blessings this Christmas season!