However, we have so much to be thankful for, and as I was feeling sorry for myself, the Lord reminded me that there are many others having a "different" Christmas this year, too. I have friends who lost a parent this year, and they had a very different Christmas, too. I know of a family who recently lost a child. Their Christmas was very different, too. Many people are struggling financially, and I'm sure their Christmas was different this year, too. We are very blessed, and I have nothing to complain about!
So we started our own family traditions this year. Growing up, the presents were never under the tree until Christmas morning. That added some excitement, so we decided to do the same this year (and not just because we didn't wrap them until Christmas Eve!). The looks on the boys faces when they ran downstairs and saw the presents under the tree was priceless!
They were so excited they could hardly stand it!
Following tradition, we had a nice breakfast together, then read the Christmas story from the Bible and prayed together.
Then it was time to tear into the gifts!
We took our time and opened them one by one
And sometimes we had to stop and try them out!
Especially the stocking stuffers
We had a very Merry Christmas, and I hope you did, too!
Glad that you all had a nice Christmas.
ReplyDeleteI do get that same, sad feeling every Christmas(this is our 3rd one).... you know, the knot in your stomach, and then the tears come:) I know exactly how you feel.
It is different being in another country, and away from family and those we love so dear. I often think of how much God gave for us, by sending His dear Son to earth as a babe. His sacrifice was so much greater than mine will ever be! As I shared the Christmas story last Sunday in the children's class, I thought of the shepherds and how they came to the manger. Afterward, "they made know abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child". That is basically what we are doing... the same as the shepherds. We are making known abroad! What a privilege! Praying for you... please pray for me:) Have a wonderful Lord's Day tomorrow!
Sorry... I wrote a book:)
I am so glad you all had a good Christmas! I am praying for you and think of you often, wondering what life must be like way down there! :) Thanks for sharing some of it with us.
ReplyDeleteI got a new computer that has the ability to use Skype! I'm excited, because I'd love to connect with you this way, if possible.
Hope you all have a great New Year!
I know it must be hard. I live 6 hours from my parents, and can visit 3 or so times a year and I still feel sorry for myself. But I'm glad no matter our situation, God is still the same. I'm glad your family had a great Christmas. I think missionaries are some of the best Christians on the earth; He will bless your sacrifices!
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