For Thursday, December 21st, 2023

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE 

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21ST, 2023

The moments of our lives may be bright with possibility, dark with fear or sadness, or even plain everyday gray, but God's glory never fades.  May God's glory shine into the exciting lights, upsetting darks,  and boring grays of your every day.

Slightly adapted from one of my morning devotionals

IT’S  WINTER !

In Ohio

   Sunrise:   7:51 am

   Sunset:   5:02 pm

Life is a special 

occasion!

Hallmark!

 

Today is the Winter Solstice which means that Fall has come to an end.  The winter solstice occurs when the when the sun’s position in the sky is at its greatest angular distance from the hemisphere, resulting in the shortest day and longest night of the year.  For the Northern Hemisphere it occurs between December 21st through the 23rd each year.  In the Southern Hemisphere it takes place between June 20th through the 23rd. 

The word solstice means sun stands still,  This has been celebrated since ancient times.  The Romans, for example honored Saturn, the god of time and harvest, with a week long festival called Saturnalia. 

While traditions surrounding the winter solstice,  differ from culture to culture, most recognize it as a symbol of rebirth. 

To celebrate today dig out your favorite blanket and spend time with family around a cozy fire.  Don’t forget to wish your family and friends a Happy Winter Solstice.

If you cannot see the bright side, polish the dull side

 

THOUGHT FOR TODAY 

No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn.

Hal Borland 

The only thing I celebrate today, is the fact that now the days will get longer, minute by minute. The shortest day of the year will come to an end and little by little we will get warmer again.  Winter lasts 3 months and I can hardly wait until Spring!

I hope you all have a  GREAT day.  Happy Thursday !

COUNTING MY BLESSINGS 

To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake it is necessary to stand out in the cold.

Aristotle 

Counting at least 3 things every day that I'm thankful for.  There is truly is always something to be thankful for.

11,909. for a cozy and warm blanket to snuggle up with

11,910. for Spring, my favorite season.

11,911. for warm clothing to wear

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.

 

Almighty and eternal God,

Protect our military

as they discharge their duties

with the shield of your strength,

may the power of your love

enable them to return home in safety

that with all who love them

they may ever praise you for your loving care.

AND bless our Police Officers, Firefighters and EMT’s.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen

GOD BLESS YOU!

ADVICE FOR TODAY

Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk by the fire; it is the time for home.

Edith Sitwell

a smile, a word of cheer, 

A bit of love from someone dear…

Love,

ma