Hope Harbor

A friend sent this to me in an email. I enjoyed it so I decided to share it here; Letter from Jesus about Christmas -- It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking My name out of the season. How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your own. I don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate My birth, just GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER. Now, having said that let Me go on. If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get rid of a couple of Santas and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene on your own front lawn. If all My followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town. Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who ma...

My blog posts thus far have primarily been somewhat of a monologue - my personal sharing of thoughts about life events. This time I am especially hoping for interaction with readers of my blog. As of now I do not have plans for Christmas Eve. It might be good for me to come up with plans for meaningful activities ... Perhaps I could do something that could become a new tradition I welcome your input. I'd like to hear about your Christmas customs. How did the traditions get started? What is most meaningful to you? I look forward to any tips and ideas you will offer Thanks in advance for the input and inspiration.

It's a great thing to be assured that we can depend on someyhing. Not quite three weeks ago I received my long awaited new wheelchair. As I was getting adjusted to my new chair, I noticed a problem with the electronics. Frequently an error message would pop up with beeping and the wheelchair would come to an abrupt stop. The technicians suspect a short in the joystick. A new part must be obtained from the manufacturer. So I am back in my old mode of mobility. Though my new equipment is still under warranty there was no promise that could prevent its failure. I am glad that there is something or rather Someone we can truly count on. Ephesians 1:13-15 (Amplified Bible) 13In Him you also who have heard the Word of Truth, the glad tidings (Gospel) of your salvation, and have believed in and adhered to and relied on Him, were stamped with the seal of the long-promised Holy Spirit. 14That [Spirit] is the guarantee of our inheritance [the firstfruits, the pledge and foretaste, the dow...

I am delayed in posting this. I've wanted to share some good news. My cast was removed. It's been two weeks already and my foot and ankle are just now starting to be stronger and have less pain. When I was thinking about telling all of you this good news, I was reminded of the greatest "Good News" - the Gospel. As we celebrate the Christmas season and always let's remember these glad tidings: Luke 2:9-11 (New American Standard Bible) 9And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. 10But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; 11for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

I regret that I did not post this earlier. Recently I saw on TV this guy talking about a book he had written called The Christmas Jars. He desceibed collecting spare change and daily putting it in a jar and then giving it anonymously to someone in need. Click on title link to visit the Christmas jars website. And here's a Youtube video discussing examples of implementing the custom of Christmas Jars: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f30sNAr4rKo&NR=1 (Because I am still unable to post active links, you may need to copy and paste into your web address bar). Christmas is swiftly approaching but don't assume it's too late. For many, every little bit of cash will help. Please let me know what you think and if there is anything I can do to help.

It has been quite awhile since I've posted to my blog. I've been battling lethargy. This lack of energy and motivation has hindered me from being productive. Some days recently I have found myself wondering if I accomplished anything worthwhile. Laziness and being solely focused on my own interests, needs or lack can certainly be a hindrance to pursuing anything of value. I am thinking today of two distinct principles. Both seem to be true. First,I am pondering the potential peril of missed opportunities. Procrastination or neglect may cause us to overlook the the needs of others and bypass instances when we could be a blessing. All to often I may feel prompted to act - to speak a word of encouragement, offer a helpful gesture or grant a financial gift - but I hesitate, and in the cloud of doubt and weakness the moment slips away. I want to have a renewed determination to engage in meamingful activities to benefit others and bring glory to God. Secondly, while it is worthwhile ...

Change even when positive can cause discomfort. Something new may require adjustment. I have a new wheelchair. I like it a lot. It is more compact and has greater ease of maneuverability. And I like its shiny blue color. My seating system fits me well and has a side support to prevent me from slumping over to the left. The improvement in my posture is sure to be beneficial to my health and ability to function as well as my appearance. However, sitting up straight is not without consequence. I have quite a back ache. I hope this pain is temporary as my muscles adjust to being corrected into a better position. Adapting to change is not always easy but it is usually worthwhile. As we are facing challenges in life, ask God for the grace to endure.