For SATURDAY. DECEMBER 21ST, 2024

 

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21ST, 2024

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

WELCOME WINTER 

In TEXAS

 Sunrise:    7;23  am

   Sunset:   5:38   

pm

Life is a special  

occasion!

Hallmark!

Today is the Winter Solstice which is when Autumn officially comes to an end.  The winter solstice occurs 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, this usually occurs December 21 - 23 each year.  In the Southern hemisphere it takes place between June 20- 23. 

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

Whle the traditions surrounding the solstice differ from culture to culture, most recognize it as a symbol of rebirth.  Various festivals, gatherings and rituals take place today worldwide.  

Celebrate the winter solstice and dig out your favorite blanket  and spend time with family around a cozy fire.   Happy Winter Everyone!

If cannot see the bright side,

 polish the dull side 

THOUGHT  FOR TODAY

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

Edith Sitwell

I could easily hibernate the whole winter long.  I don’t like to be cold. Thankfully Texas is some warmer than Ohio was, but still with the short daylight hours, I feel like I barely wake up and it’s time to go to bed again.   I do have several cozy blankets to cuddle up in and keep warm when I need to and you’ll often find me napping during the day.   I eat more comfort foods in the winter time too.  As a result I may put on a few pounds too.

I don’t do any winter sports,  so not much exercise is going on here either.  At least when I do go out, I’m not slipping and sliiding in the snow anymore.  There is a lot to be thankful for. 

Winter is a time to find the comforts of home. 

The picture today are of winters in Ohio, where I used to live.

I hope you all have a SUPER Saturday!

COUNTING MY GIFTS

No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn.

Hal Borland 

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

12,978. for a warm cozy home in winter 

12,979. for lots of blankets to snuggle up in 

12,980. for no slipping and sliding in the snow.

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 ALL!

ADVICE FOR TODAY

One kind word can warm three winter months.

Japanese Proverb 

a smile,a word of cheer, 

A bit of love from someone dear…

Love,

ma