ON THE BRIGHT SIDE
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8TH, 2013
13 DAYS UNTIL WINTER
17 DAYS UNTIL CHRISTMAS
Sunrise:7:42 am
Sunset:4:59 pm
If you can't see the Bright Side, polish the dull side
Luke 2: 5-7
He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
THOUGHT FOR TODAY
As long as we know in our hearts what Christmas ought to be, Christmas is.
Eric Sevareid
What if we were told there was no room for us? What if we were turned away from our homes and left without a place to stay? It would be unimaginable to me not to have my room with its comfy bed to spend the night. I am truly spoiled and having all the creature comforts is something I rarely even think about let alone give thanks for.
Most of us have a nativity set in our homes. They portray the birth of Jesus laying in the hay with the animals nearby. Mary and Joseph are by his side. Nativity means the birth of a person and also refers to the facts of their birth, such as the time, place, and situation.
Did you know that the first nativity scene, or creche, was created by Francis of Assisi in 1223. He gathered local people in Italy to portray the biblical characters and used a figure made of wax to represent the infant Jesus. The portrayal quickly caught on, and live and sculpted nativity scenes spread all over Europe.
Nativity scenes were popular with painters such as Michelangelo, Raphael, and Rembrandt. The event is depicted in stained glass windows in churches and cathedrals throughout the world.
As lowly as this birth was, it is probably the most well known birth is the world. I think it is a good reminder to all of us. The birth of Christ at Christmas is what is important to remember.
Here at my house we wait to place the babe in the manger on Christmas morning. The manger is prepared and waiting for Him, just as we prepare for Christmas during advent.
I hope you all have a restful and relaxing Sunday. The week ahead will bring much to do.
COUNTING MY GIFTS
Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.
Hamilton Wright Mabie
I have counted at least 3 things every day that I'm thankful for this past year and have now reached my 1000 gifts. I'm not stopping, but will continue on counting. There is always, always something to be thankful for.
12O2. for a soft and cozy bed
1203. for my nativity set
1204. for the beautiful stained glass windows at my church
Enter into His courts with thanksgiving — and in His presence is fullness of Joy!
PRAYER FOR OUR TROOPS
Please pray for God's protection of
our troops and HIS wisdom for their
commanders.
Lord, hold our troops in
your loving hands.
Protect them as they protect us.
Bless them and their families for the
selfless acts they perform for us
in our time of need. I ask this in the
name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior.
AND bless our Police Officers, Firefighters
and Paramedics and EMT's
GOD BLESS YOU ALL !
Of course, this is the season to be jolly, but it is also a good time to be thinking about those who aren’t
Helen Valentine
A little smile, a word of cheer,
A bit of love from someone dear…
Love,
ma
1 comment:
I too wouldn't like if it I was told there was no room for me. That was an interesting fact about the first nativity set, Ma. I didn't know that. I do know there are so many wonderful ones out there depicting the Christmas story.
I hope your Sunday was a restful one!
betty
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