I must admit I am a bit of a Scrooge when it comes to the holidays.  It seems the meaning of Christmas is covered up with shopping, gifts and busy schedules.  It is also a reminder to many of us that the holidays are just not what they used to be.  The last time my mom was in my house, was Thanksgiving day 2008.  Even though it has been five years since that Thanksgiving, it still makes me sad that she is no longer with us.  Do not get me wrong.  I would not wish her down from Heaven for anything.  She is where she always wanted to be, with her Lord and Savior.  However, it is a reminder that people will come in and out of our lives.  Some people are in our lives for a long time and others only visit for a short period.  I want to encourage you to think about the people in your life today.  Thank God for them.  Ask God to show you how you might be a blessing to them.  Think about how they have been a blessing to you.  They are in your life for a reason.  Just take a moment today to look around you and decide why God has blessed you with them.  Maybe you are to share the love of Jesus with them or encourage them along the way.  You never know if they will be here next year.  I find that God is challenging me to make the most of every opportunity.

I don’t know what 2014 will look like; however, I do know that God is in control.  I pray that God will show up and show off as he prepares us for Swaziland.  I pray that he will be with those of you who support us and those of you that will join our support team in the months to come.  I am excited to see how God will use the people in our lives to bring glory to Himself.  Thank you, Jesus for sending your Son so many years ago.  Please help us to keep our focus on the meaning of the season.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Michelle Mullins