Two days before Christmas! The gifts are wrapped and arranged under our tree and being used as a gymnasium by our cats! Most of the housework is done, baking is underway and our cupboards are groaning with food. The trappings are largely completed but what is happening in my heart? Am I honouring the Christ child, keeping peace in my heart and  life, and refusing to worry about what another year might bring?

My key word for 2016 is gratitude. Without it we cannot truly have peace or appreciate all we have.

Sometimes, God sends an unexpected occurrence to remind us of his goodness, his grace, and the love he shows in the stressful circumstances of life. Last Friday, my husband and I went shopping. When I got home, I realized I didn’t have my purse. In my purse were my credit cards, health card and all the other ID I  carry with me, plus several gift cards that I had purchased. The last place I had been was in a MacDonald’s, waiting for my husband. We quickly got in the car and drove back. Had a desperate shopper taken my purse? Would it still be there? I rushed into the MacDonald’s and just as I was looking around the table where I had been sitting, a lady said, “Are you looking for your purse? We gave it right away to an employee.” I thanked and thanked this lovely young couple, out having a meal with their little boy. Having worked retail, I know that not everyone is as honest. This couple blessed me by their compassion and thoughtfulness. They warmed my heart and helped me to remember that God’s mercies are always there.

My pastor, Gary Hooper, says that 2016 is going to be a year of surprises. May this couple, and all of you, discover wonderful opportunities, good health, provision and beautiful surprises of every kind in 2016.

Merry Christmas!

Ruth Ann Adams