As we prepare to celebrate Christmas this year – what would you give Baby Jesus? You finished shopping for family and friends – the main person, the whole reason for Christmas – what would you give to him? Over the last few years, I have taken the opportunity to stop amid my busyness in the Christmas season to inquire of the Lord. A few days ago, I asked in prayer, ‘Lord what do you want for your birthday?’ The Lord spoke into my spirit, “Show love towards Me.” I immediately thought ‘How can I show you love?”  … then I remembered the verse Matthew 25:30-40 . . .40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

I Corinthians 13:5 says, “ 5 Love is not rude; it is not self-seeking, it is not provoked [nor overly sensitive and easily angered]; it does not take into account a wrong endured.” This verse lets us know we can never display love solely with our natural emotions. Yet the key to living a happy life is love.

The key to living the life you want is LOVE! Love causes relationships to bloom and become lifelong bonds. I encourage you to show love towards the people God has given to share in your life. The holidays can be challenging when we are all together in one place. As much as we love our family, there can be tension in relationships. If you find yourself angry or uncomfortable with family members – think of what it might be like if you did not have loved ones to draw near.

When you begin to feel frustrated or have conflict with family memebers — Stop!! Just when you are about to lose it. Just STOP! Ask God to help you. God will RELEASE you from the place of past hurt, anger, and frustration. You may not get it right every time – just don’t give up. Allow the love of God to shine through you. Each person you know (including you) can use more love!

Happy Birthday Jesus & Merry Christmas everybody!!!