For me, the holiday season has always brought comfort and
certainty. I love Thanksgiving dinner with extended family, eating great food
and sharing about God’s goodness to us over the past year. Traditions are very
important to me so I always count on decorating the house and tree with my
family sometime after Thanksgiving. We always play the same Christmas music and
pull out the same ornaments, some beautiful and some embarrassing. Any time a
question comes up if we should finally get rid of old decorations, I can’t let
anything be thrown away or left in a box- I count on everything always being
the same-the same Christmas angel on the tree, the same nativity set, the same
homemade ornaments. Like I said, traditions are a big deal to me.
Last year around
Christmas and New Year’s, I was in the process of applying with Kids Alive. I
had no idea what the year would hold or where I would be during Christmas 2012.
I am amazed and in awe of where God has brought me. This holiday season feels
so different to me-not quite the same as my expectations of years past with
comfort, certainty, and traditions. I will be staying here in the DR over
Christmas this year. Although this is a hard decision, the Lord has made it
clear to me that this is what’s best. It sounds so basic, but God has been
reminding me that the Christmas season isn’t all about the things I hold dear,
it’s all about JESUS. This Christmas
will be different for me, but what a privilege to celebrate the wonderful birth
of our Savior in a different country and culture- after all, the God that we
serve is a global God who sent his Son for the people of all nations! I trust
that God will bring new comforts, joys, and traditions that are beyond what I
can see now.
At the care center, we are getting ready for the big
Christmas celebration coming up on December 12th! I am so excited
about this. From what I understand, there is a huge meal prepared and families
are invited for a program. The kids have been practicing songs and dramas. I’ve
heard little girls talking about wearing their best dresses and being so
excited for that day. Each child will get food and fruit to take home to their
families along with a present and clothes. I’ll be sure and take lots of photos
and update you all on this big day!
Please pray with me that during the Christmas season,
children’s hearts would be open to the gift of Jesus Christ. What a wonderful
time to give your life to Jesus- when we celebrate God giving his Son for us.
The Christmas celebration will have the Christmas story woven all throughout so
please also pray with me that families and visitors will be open to the message
of salvation through Christ.
As always, I think of you all with a grateful heart humbled
that you are partnering with me here in God’s kingdom work in the Dominican
Republic. I pray for you all as you prepare to celebrate our dear Savior’s
birth.
Emily
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