A New Year. A New Focus

This year so far for me has been one of chaos, stress, and tough decisions.  I have to admit that I have not handled it great and I have honestly wanted to hide in my bed instead of face the world a few times this month.  I'm tired, my mind is swimming with the many decisions and issues in my life, and I have had trouble focusing on the daily things I need to accomplish.  So far it has not been my year.

It is interesting though because even in all the craziness that has been my year so far, something significant has happened.  I have had to completely and fully depend on Jesus to get me through.  I am constantly dwelling on His strength and seeking His direction in the struggles that I am facing.  At night, I come home and take time to rest in His word and who He is.  In the morning, I give my day to Him and face the day relying on Him fully.

Though I have not enjoyed the many difficult challenges I have faced so far this year, I have found strength in leaning on Jesus throughout it.  All in all I would say that my year has been pretty good because I am learning to lean on Jesus daily.  I hope that this will become a habit that I will continue everyday because I have found that I can face anything when I depend on Jesus.

My wife and my life are on course to change drastically this year and I hope that through the many new changes we will be encountering, I can lean on Christ for everything.  Where is Jesus in your life?  Is He walking with you daily?  Do you depend upon Him for your strength and direction?  I hope in this new year you will follow Jesus only.  I hope He will lead you to a life of victory as you walk in strength through His guidance.  Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

Blessings,

Greg

Prince of Peace

Isaiah 9:6
For to us a child is born, 
   to us a son is given;
and the government shall be upon^[a] his shoulder,
   and his name shall be called^[b]
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
   Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 


This year I truly hope we will get to know Jesus as the prince of peace.  It seems to me that each year violence is becoming more prevalent, hate is showing itself in new ways, and we seem to be finding new reasons to consider war.  I pray this Christmas we can look to peace across the world.  I pray that their will be peace in each person's home, each person's family gathering, and I pray that their will be peace in each one of our hearts.  Merry Christmas.


Blessings,


Greg

The Reason for the Season

Obviously not the reason for the season but a great picture of my dog with a new toy at Christmas when she was a pup :)

Don't miss the reason for the season. This time of year is not about gifts, food, or even family. This season is about remembering the precious gift that was given to us in Jesus coming down to earth to save us. Don't lose sight of this wonderful event. If you have never recognized Jesus as savior and worshipped in the true glory of this season, accept Him into your heart today. You will never regret it. He will fill the hole in your heart and bring you a peace and joy you have never known. Trust him and truly know him today! Merry Christmas.

Blessings,

Greg

Its Beginning to Feel a Lot Like Christmas

It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas! This is not due to snow but the aura in our home and feelings in my heart. We have setup all the Christmas decorations, wrapped all the gifts, and last night started making Christmas goodies. I am so excited to spend quality time with my family. I am so excited to see the joy on each persons face as they open their gifts. I am looking forward to the wonderful food and incredibly fun conversations.

I really had a slow start this Christmas. I wasn't feeling the Christmas spirit and felt pretty detached from the season. Then we began to setup the decorations, focused on advent with our young adults and decided to make most of our gifts this year. My heart slowly began to remember the true reason for the season. I remembered how precious, simple, and poignant the Charlie Brown Christmas movie is. I remembered the beautiful act of love our Savior performed by coming to our world as a baby. I remembered the love I have been shown by my family and the wonderful Christian example that have demonstrated by their lives to me. I am so greatful and excited for such a wonderful time of the year. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas also!

Blessings,

Greg