Sunday, December 25, 2011

On Giving


"For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us..." Isa. 9:6 (NASB)

I woke up this morning before the sun was up. I made a pot of coffee and put the french toast casserole in the oven. Sitting in my husband's easy chair I read the first few chapters of Luke by the light of our Christmas tree lights. Mary's Magnificat resonated with me especially this morning. Yesterday, as I prepared the roast for today and wrapped the last of the gifts, I watched a heart-breaking documentary about the waste in our country and the issue of hunger, especially among children. In Luke, Mary recites. "He has filled the hungry with good things."

This morning I was overwhelmed with the blessings of God. Our home is warm, safe and filled with good things and unnecessary luxuries. We give gifts at Christmas to remember the gifts the Magi gave to the Christ child and to rejoice in the free gift of Grace that Jesus has given to us. Yesterday as I watched one statistic after another roll across the television screen I couldn't help but thank God that he has not only filled us with the good gift of grace, but also the gift of food security, a roof over our heads and clean drinking water. My prayer for the upcoming year is that I would remember the daily bread my Father gives me. I'm thankful for the gifts the Lord has given us, and I'm thankful for the opportunity to be able to give to those who are in need.

The Lord has done great things for us. If you'd like to do something for someone, I'd encourage you to make a donation to a nonprofit in your community. Or buy a family in Africa a chicken. Or sponsor a child.
And speaking of child, here's one of our WildChild from this morning.

Saturday, November 12, 2011

Cute Giveaway!

My good friend Micah over at Blue Giraffe Artworks does amazing things with paint. Her colorful pop-art style is so fun, and I've been waiting until we own our home to finally invest in some of her beautiful portraits. She's having a giveaway on her blog for a canvas tote with one of adorable original pieces.

You can read all the details about it on her blog. While you're there, check out her SHOP section. Looking for some funky and colorful gifts for the pet lover in your life? What about the person who has everything except art for that "one wall." She has just the thing. You can find mugs, stationary and even more totes!

(In full disclosure, I consider Micah a dear friend. But even if she wasn't, her art rocks.)