My Mama's Christmas Tradition Lives On! Happy Friday!

A big black fat book stood out on my mother's bedroom bookshelf that I always viewed with delight. I would beg for her to read it to me, "PLEASE, just one poem!"

The book held hundreds of poems, which she would read with passion, humor, skill, enacting each role with a different voice, playing each character as though she had become them. Once in a while on cold and rainy days, my mama would draw me on her lap and say, "Let's read!"

I remember even now, that I always cherished the times my mother would hold me close as we sqished in an overstuffed chair together and the deep tones of her reading voice would draw me into imaginary worlds. Sitting that close to the one I loved the best, feeling loved within the sweet smell of her lotion and soft skin, m longings for love were fulfilled to overflowing happiness to steal away this time from her busy days. A very clear memory was the first time she read me this Christmas poem. The story captured my attention and then as it unfolded, my little girl heart swelled with joy. Even now, at 61, the memory of it brings me soul comfort.

I will be reading it to my children again this year because it has become a precious story and a tradition that has gone on long after my mama quit reading out load to us. On this Friday, make a special time with hot chocolate or spiced tea and read it out-loud and begin a new tradition! Enjoy!

As for me, I will be bustling about getting the last touches ready for my own crew to begin coming home, starting Saturday. Oh the butterflies are flying and I am getting oh so excited.

Annie And Willie's Prayer

'Twas the eve before Christmas. "Good night," had been said, And Annie and Willie had crept into bed; There were tears on their pillows, and tears in their eyes, And each little bosom was heaving with sighs, For tonight their stern father's command had been given That they should retire precisely at seven Instead of at eight-for they troubled him more With questions unheard of than ever before: He had told them he thought this delusion a sin, No such creature as "Santa Claus" ever had been. And he hoped, after this, he should never more hear How he scrambled down chimneys with presents each year. And this was the reason that two little heads So restlessly tossed on their soft, downy beds. Eight, nine, and the clock on the steeple tolled ten, Not a word bad been spoken by either till then, When Willie's sad face from the blanket did peep, And whispered, 'Dear Annie, is 'ou fast as'eep?" "Why no, brother Willie," a sweet voice replies, "I've long tried in vain, but I can't shut my eyes, For somehow it makes me so sorry because Dear papa has said there is no 'Santa Claus.' Now we know there is, and it can't be denied, For he came every year before mamma died; But, then, I've been thinking that she used to pray, And God would hear everything mamma would say, And maybe she asked him to send Santa Claus here With that sackful of presents he brought every year." "Well, why tan't we p'ay dest as mamma did den, And ask Dod to send him with p'esents aden?" "I've been thinking so too," and without a word more Four little bare feet bounded out on the floor, And four little knees the soft carpet pressed, And two tiny hands were clasped close to each breast. "Now, Willie, you know we must firmly believe That the presents we ask for we're sure to receive; You must wait very still till I say the 'Amen,' And by that you will know that your turn has come then." "Dear Jesus, look down on my brother and me, And grant us the favor we are asking of thee. I want a wax dolly, a teaset, and ring, And an ebony workbox that shuts with a spring. Bless papa, dear Jesus, and cause him to see That Santa Claus loves us as much as does he; Don't let him get fretful and angry again At dear brother Willie and Annie. Amen." 'Please, Desus, 'et Santa Taus turn down tonight, And b'ing us some p'esents before it is light, I want he should div' me a nice 'ittie s'ed, With bright sbinin' 'unners, and all painted red; A box full of tandy, a book, and a toy, Amen, and then, Desus, I'll be a dood boy."

Their prayers being ended, they raised up their heads, With hearts light and cheerful, again sought their beds. Tley were lost soon in slumber, both peaceful and deep, And with fairies in dreamland were roaming in sleep.

Eight, nine, and the little French clock had struck ten, Ere the father had thought of his children again: He seems now to hear Annie's half-suppressed sighs, And to see the big tears stand in Willie's blue eyes. 'I was harsh with my darlings," he mentally said, 'And should not have sent them so early to bed; But then I was troubled; my feelings found vent, For bank stock today has gone down ten per cent!

But of course they've forgotten their troubles ere this, And that I denied them the thrice-asked-for kiss: But, just to make sure, I'll go up to their door, For I never spoke harsh to my darlings before." So saying, he softly ascended the stairs, And arrived at the door to hear both of their prayers; His Annie's "Bless papa" drew forth the big tears, And Willie's grave promise fell sweet on his ears. 'Strange-strange-I'd forgotten," said he with a sigh, 'How I longed when a child to have Christmas draw nigh." "I'll atone for my harshness," he inwardly said, "By answering their prayers ere I sleep in my bed." Ilen he turned to the stairs and softly went down, Threw off velvet slippers and silk dressing gown, Donned hat, coat, and boots, and was out in the street, A millionaire facing the cold, driving in the sleet Nor stopped he until he had bought everything From the box full of candy to the tiny gold ring; Indeed, he kept adding so much to his store, That the various presents outnumbered a score.

Then homeward he turned. When his holiday load, With Aunt Mary's help, in the nursery was stowed. Miss Dolly was seated beneath a pine tree, By the side of a table spread out for her tea; A workbox well fitted in the center was laid, And on it the ring for which Annie had prayed, A soldier in uniform stood by a sled "With bright shining runners, and all painted red.' There were balls, dogs, and horses, books pleasing to see, And birds of all colors were perched in the tree! While Santa Claus, laughing, stood up in the top, As if getting ready more presents to drop. And as the fond father the picture surveyed, He thought for his trouble he had amply been paid, And he said to himself, as he brushed off a tear, 'I'm happier tonight than I've been for a year; I've enjoyed more pure pleasure than ever before; What care I if bank stock falls ten per cent more! Hereafter I'll make it a rule, I believe, To have Santa Claus visit us each Christmas Eve.' So thinking, he gently extinguished the light, And, tripping down stairs, retired for the night.

As soon as the beams of the bright morning sun Put the darkness to flight, and the stars one by one, Four little blue eyes out of sleep opened wide, And at the same moment the presents espied; Then out of their beds they sprang with a bound, And the very gifts prayed for were all of them found. They laughed and they cried, in their innocent glee, And shouted for papa to come quick and see What presents old Santa Claus brought in the night (just the things that they wanted,) and left before light: 'And now," added Annie, in a voice soft and low, 'You'll believe there's a 'Santa Claus', papa, I know"- While dear little Willie climbed up on his knee, Determined no secret between them should be, And told in soft whispers how Annie had said That their dear, blessed mamma, so long ago dead, Used to kneel down by the side of her chair, And that God up in heaven had answered her prayer. 'Den we dot up and prayed dust well as we tould, And Dod answered our prayers: now wasn't He dood?" 'I should say that He was, if He sent you all these, And knew just what presents my children would please. (Well, well, let him think so, the dear little elf, 'Twould be cruel to tell him I did it myself.")

Blind father! who caused your stem heart to relent, And the hasty words spoken so soon to repent? 'Twas the Being who bade you steal softly upstairs, And made you His agent to answer their prayers.

- Sophia P. Snow

I Hope you will love my new book, coming out January 7!

For more information, Go HERE!

God Forgives, but foolishness has consequences: Owning Your Choices

"I am so confused! I have so many decisions to make and I feel paralyzed which way to go!" I have struggled with this before, and hear this from women every day.

In this time, there are many different voices and opinions pulling us in numerous directions--confusing the heart, mind, and soul. Many young women are listening to feminist voices, to popular culture, to contemporary thought. They do not know that all choices, especially made after seeking the counsel of the wrong voices, will have great consequences in their lives.

When we don't own our lives, something or someone else will. Whether we realize it or not, we are always choosing to serve and worship something. Many in today's culture unwittingly think that personal fulfillment comes from getting the material things they think they need to have; experiences will give them a surge of adventure and excitement; romance will make them feel loved. Dreaming of circumstances in which you might escape the irritations or depressing circumstances of your current situation is a false hope. Anything else substituted for God, His ways, His wisdom will disappoint and lead you further down a road of foolishness.

What popular cultural voices do not tell us is that in the long haul, no one and no thing can make us happy or fulfilled apart from the love, grace, instruction, truth and forgiveness of God. So many decisions made for short-term gain have devastating ramifications and leave ugly scars in the long run.

Often, we shake our fist and wonder why our circumstances are so terrible instead of seeing that if we make foolish or selfish choices, we will end up with devastating consequences.

God has designed you as a woman with potentila influence. Your choices matter and have weight. One of my dear friends always says, "God will forgive you, wisdom won't." While we are blessed by relationship with a loving, gracious, merciful God, each step we take is leading in a direction, and the wrong path will end with a negative outcome.

Three principles, though, can lead us to make decisions that will lead us in paths of blessing.

1. Walk the pathways of your life with wise people, don't engage yourself with those who have foolish values.

Proverbs says, "He who walks with the wise will be wise, a companion of fools suffers harm." Find wise people to learn from, to model, or read books by those whose lives reflect His ways and His light. Seek out wise people

2. Study, memorize, read, ponder and store up God's word.

Psalm 119:105 tells us, "Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path." God's word shows us, always, the way to go. As we memorize his word and store it in our hearts, it becomes a vocabulary for the Holy Spirit to use to prompt us, to lead us in righteous paths. Don't blame God for your bad decisions or the consequences that have followed.

3. Obedience to His ways and sensitivity to His voice--God makes it very clear in scripture that if we obey his commandments, we will find blessing. He also tells us the when we follow the gods of culture and disobey Him, we will find curse--bad consequences in our lives.

"See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse— the blessing if you obey the commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you today; the curse if you disobey the commands of the Lord your God and turn from the way that I command you today by following other gods, which you have not known." Deut. 11: 26-28

When you practice walking in wisdom and choosing to follow Biblical wisdom and truth, you may find yourself alone, but walking the way of God--owning and taking responsibilities--will result ultimately in the favor and blessing of God, because we were made to flourish in living by His direction.

How can you own your life through your decisions? How can you face the foolish decisions you have made and come back to the pathway of following the ways of God.

Choose to be a woman of wise, discerning, godly choices, even when making the right one is difficult and you will find more grace and light with each day, each year.

"But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, That shines brighter and brighter until the full day." Proverbs 4;18

***Don't forget that my new book, Own Your Life, is now available for pre-order!

10th Annual Christmas Tea with my Colorado Bible study! Own your Outreach!

" Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near." Hebrews 10: 24-25

What could be better than friends gathering, feasting, gabbing up a storm and ending the evening inspiring each other to stay strong and fast in our desire to love our precious Lord. Ten years ago, I found myself alone again, in a new town with no friends.

"I need friends and people to walk with through life, Lord, I prayed." And then I sent out an email invitation to as many women as I could find and we began our times together. Swelling to 180 on our email address list, we have seen women come and go--but always there is room for whoever wants to come--and always prayer and love for whoever needs it.

Every year, I get hundreds of letters from women all over the world telling me they long for a mentor, and a friend. I know what it is like to be lonely and to feel isolated. I have moved 17 times--started all over again so many times. But I have always had to be the one to initiate a group in my area. I have always had to start, to reach out, to initiate.

But it is because Jesus was the initiator--I learned it from Him--while we were yet sinners, Christ died--He reached out and so I was taught early in my spiritual life that I was to reach out. He created community and fellowship by gathering a whole variety of people into His calling, "Follow me and I will make you fishers of men." They ate and walked and lived and loved and argued--together.

"Two are better than one," Ecclesiastes tells us. And "a chord of three strands is not easily broken."

You have so many people who are praying to God to bring a friend into their lives--but you have to spend yourself to invest in others who are hoping for a friend, a mentor, a group that you could start--but it begins with owning your potential influence, your potential legacy of building a community of friends hungry for love and longing for God.

And Paul encourages older women to teach the younger--to help them, to give them a heart to share stories--its almost as though Paul envisioned pot lucks! :) I delight in so many sweet women who are much younger than me, but truly dear friends--and I do not want them to feel alone like I did. I love sharing in their lives and the possibilities of the stories they are living each day and the dreams and ideals they have.

Each of us has a big capacity to love, to reach out to others in friendship, but we must take charge of our influence, learn how to make friends, understand how to serve and work towards the goal of providing not only what we ourselves need--that person to stand with us in all seasons of life-but for the sake of our love of Jesus--to reach out to others who may be lost--like sheep without a shepherd

Each year, woman gather from as far as 100 miles away, just because our fellowship is so encouraging and sweet. Friendships are celebrated. We don't even all know each other because each meeting is varied in who is able to come--and of course we always have newbies and they are welcome, too.But all know that when they are here, we sort of belong to each other, even if just for an evening.

Each year, everyone brings their own favorite mug, tea cup or Christmas cup--all are different and beloved by their owner. Warm, spicy cider, coffee and teas are offered to drink and everyone brings a hearty appetizer sort of thing and desert. The women outdid themselves this year. Everyone came back for 2nds and 3rds!

Tonight, we were serenaded by lovely carols as we sat and chattered away--I could hardly get anyone to quit talking because everyone was having so much fun, being away from the common stresses, away to share burdens, laugh, celebrate this light and life we have cultivated for an evening away, together.

Always there are babies to remind us what is really of value in life and always they bring smiles.

The smiles say it all--it is a merry group and all are so very happy to sit and talk and talk because all of us need time to relax and celebrate the beauty of moments that we miss in the busy whirl of duty filled days.

Tables are set up all over the house and people sit on stair cases, floors, couches and release a little of life weariness. No one notices if there is dust on the tables or messes tucked in here and there-as a matter of fact, these piles make us all feel more normal.

Some friends have been with me almost from the beginning. We raised our children through the years together and we have shared in hundreds of evenings of Bible study together--and it is all stored in our hearts and souls. Ten years is a lot of history, phases, seasons, and watching God be faithful through all the twists and turns of life.

There is a value to commitment and staying faithful--as it provides a pathway to long term memories and relationships that give solidity to life. But sweet fellowship must be planned, worked for, committed to--for a legacy to happen. It requires one person or two to reach out, to work hard, to open their hearts to give love and to stay the course.

There is a core--friends who set up chairs, come early, stay late, pray with those who need it--these who serve with me at my conferences, and who cook for my intensives. We ordinary women caught a picture of changing our world together, and now we see that literally hundreds of lives have been changed merely because we have reached out, prayed and worked together and asked God to use us to be a force of encouragement together. (We missed you Brandee and prayed for your ear infection and cold. But you were being appreciated and loved all evening long.)

How are you owning your arena right where you are? There are women just waiting to find a friend, to be encouraged in Jesus. You will never know how God might use you and your friends unless you reach out. It is not always easy and some groups work and some don't. But after doing this group for 10 years, I see a history of God's touch on the lives of so many who just needed to know they were not alone in their ideals and struggles.

I am so very grateful for all who have been sharing about my new book. You are the best!

Remember, if you order for your whole group, you will get lots of pieces of encouragement from me--a free devotion, video of encouragement, how to start a small group--lots more. It is because I want to help other groups all over the world become a strong community for Christ. It just takes someone initiating.

Buy HERE

Pre-order your copy ofOwn Your Life and receive a free copy of 7 Daily Inspirations to Own Your Life by Sally Clarkson!

Get a week of inspirations, scripture, and prayers to find days that bring out the best version of you with Sally Clarkson’s 7 Daily Inspirations to Own Your Life.

To Redeem: Simply email your digital receipt from an online purchase or take a picture of your printed receipt and email to: momentum@tyndale.com with “Own Your Life” as the subject line. We will send you a link to download your gift. Thank you for your early purchase!

Pre-Order FIVE or More Books!

If you pre-order five or more copies, you’ll receive the gift above, PLUS a six-minute introductory video by Sally and five beautiful, shareable, printable posters with inspirations to Own Your Life.

To Redeem: Follow the instructions above, but use “Own Your Life 5” as the subject line, and we’ll send a link to download all of your free gifts.

Pre-Order TEN or More Books!

If you pre-order ten or more copies, you’ll receive all of the above gifts PLUS a special greeting for your small group by Sally and a digital download of Whole Heart Ministries new book: Taking Motherhood to Hearts – How to Start, Lead and Tend Your Mom Heart Group (a 30,000 word book!). PLUS one lucky winner will get a telephone call from Sally for a one-hour mentoring session! The winner will be chosen after January 5^th.

To Redeem: Follow the instructions above, but use “Own Your Life 10” as the subject line, and we’ll send a link to download your free gifts.

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What Would They Read About You? - Owning Your Life Story

What choices will you take in the pathway of your life? What story will be told of you!

Furrowed eyebrows above large dark eyes is the signal to me as a mom that something is not right with the world with one of my children.

Like my other children, this child had faced the challenge of having our family in public life and feeling so limited and inadequate to live into such a pressured role.

"Mama, do you ever feel like a hypocrite when you are out there in the public in such a visible way? Doesn't it get hard when you fail, to keep writing ideals? Do you ever feel disqualified?"

This particular child has been thrust into leadership roles, but pressure does come from putting your neck out there and trying to stand for Biblical ideals in a culture that disdains the sacred and committed values written there.

"Yes, you know that I often feel like quitting ministry, about 10 times a week!" was my reply.

But you have to always remember, our message isn't that we are perfect and confident and strong and that is why we have the authority to write and speak. Instead, our message is that in spite of the fact that we have blown it, make mistakes, struggle with the dark side of life and don't always feel like loving others, that God has been faithful to us--and that He redeems every moment, every mistake, every failure.

It is a risk to stand for something, to seek after the Holy ways of God, to keep going when you are weary to the bone, to love when you feel so hurt and rejected by those who call themselves Christians.

Yet, my own ministry keeps going because the older I get, the more grateful I am for this personal love that carries me through so many difficulties. Wisdom from His words speaks to me every day and guides me. Forgiveness for my deep and always abiding selfishness is absolutely the grace of my life.

I am so very excited about sharing this book because there is such hope in God's ways. There is grace and goodness in His answers.

I can speak about raising children because in spite of the face that I made mistakes, that I didn't have all the answers, that sometimes I did not even like my children--God faithfully took the work of my heart and made it enough.

I can speak to living through the dark halls of marriage conflict because I have lived through years of having to learn over and over again how to forgive, how to serve, how to love unconditionally. Seeing that making a commitment that was for me unchangeable, led me in the path of maturity and grace. And so now after 33 years, my marriage has become to me a story of His gracious love and wisdom.

Financial challenges, illnesses, car wrecks, church splits, depression--all of these places have become an eventual light to my life because they have emptied my hands of the idols of this world and placed in my heart a deeper understanding of eternity, what really matters.

If I have made it through the seasons with such blessing, heart fulfillment, such eternal affirmation--in spite of all of my flaws, then I know you can make it, too!

And so, when I had to write about myself--my life story, what God has, by His grace through my life, I was assured again, that I have a message to give--because if I was so flawed, weary, insecure at points, and made so many mistakes and still I see His legacy through my life--then I want to tell everyone I know--engage in His ways, endure and determine to be steadfast, love generously, don't be so hard on yourself, but live for sacred values---all because He wants to love and bless you and your precious family and friends.

And so this is why I wrote my biographical information so you would know the journey of life God has walked me through, the seasons I have lived, the ways I have been led to reach out--and how amazingly He has blessed because He is so good.

So this is what I wrote in summarizing God's abundant life through be all because He is sooo good and so faithful. If he has so led and blessed me, I know He will do the same for you! What is holding you back? Are you willing to take the risk to Own Your Life story--for Him?

HERE IS MY STORY? WHAT IS YOURS?

Home is the place where the whispers of God’s love are heard regularly, the touch of His hands is given intentionally throughout the day, the words of His encouragement and affirmation pointed to lay the foundation of loving relationships where the mother conducts the beauty of this life within its walls. I hope you will find inspiration to cultivate such a life within the pages of this blog. I welcome you here!

Let me tell you a little about myself. I grew up in a Christian home, personally accepted Christ in college, went into campus ministry and overseas missions after graduation, and returned in 1980 to minister to executive women and singles in Denver, where Clay (whom I had known since 1974) was in seminary.

We began our journey of life together the next year in August 1981 (I had just turned 28). Three-some decades later, I am the joyful mother of four wholehearted children who love God: Sarah (1984), Joel (1986), Nathan (1989), and Joy (1995). I am a dreamer who always gets bogged down with the details of life. We've moved seventeen times (six internationally), but I try to imagine that somehow it has expanded my soul! I greatly enjoy creating tasty meals, baking whole grain goodies, having proper tea times, and bringing festivity into my home through seasonal decor, music, art, and candles. I love to spend time with my best friends, among whom my children and husband top the list. I am probably ADHD and now no longer wonder where my son got it. I sing and have recorded with Clay who is a singer-songwriter and guitarist. I love to walk and hike in the beauty of the outdoors, and especially in the mountains (we live in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains). I always find myself drawn into reading, writing, speaking, and teaching. I am passionate about biblical ideals, and am driven to think, learn, envision, and conceive.

I also love to engage with and influence others, fellowship with kindred spirits, and study the Word together. I appreciate loving friends, kindness, courage, and thoughtfulness. My wonderful children have become my soul-mates and dearest friends. I never feel a bit guilty for enjoying my caffeine--strong black tea and European coffee--and dark chocolate. I love Jesus and am amazed at his integrity. He is the center of my heart and the passion of my life. I started SallyClarkson.com as my personal blog because I wanted a place to share my thoughts and convictions, and to connect with and encourage other Christian women like myself.

But  most of all, I would hope my story would tell others, through my blog and in my life, that

GOD IS FAITHFUL. That's about it for me. What about you?

PRE-ORDER HERE TODAY!

Amazon.com or Barnes and Noble

Because we are talking about telling life stories, I would like to giveaway 2 of my favorite books that are inspiring stories--God Smuggler and The Hiding Place! these stories inspired my children and captured their hearts with a deep desire to live boldly for God.

Also, remember--if you pre-order my book now, you will receive free gifts!

Pre-order your copy of Own Your Life and receive a free copy of 7 Daily Inspirations to Own Your Life by Sally Clarkson!

Get a week of inspirations, scripture, and prayers to find days that bring out the best version of you with Sally Clarkson’s 7 Daily Inspirations to Own Your Life.

To Redeem: Simply email your digital receipt from an online purchase or take a picture of your printed receipt and email to: momentum@tyndale.com with “Own Your Life” as the subject line. We will send you a link to download your gift. Thank you for your early purchase!

Pre-Order FIVE or More Books!

If you pre-order five or more copies, you’ll receive the gift above, PLUS a six-minute introductory video by Sally and five beautiful, shareable, printable posters with inspirations to Own Your Life.

To Redeem: Follow the instructions above, but use “Own Your Life 5” as the subject line, and we’ll send a link to download all of your free gifts.

Pre-Order TEN or More Books!

If you pre-order ten or more copies, you’ll receive all of the above gifts PLUS a special greeting for your small group by Sally and a digital download of Whole Heart Ministries new book: Taking Motherhood to Hearts – How to Start, Lead and Tend Your Mom Heart Group (a 30,000 word book!). PLUS one lucky winner will get a telephone call from Sally for a one-hour mentoring session! The winner will be chosen after January 5^th.

To Redeem: Follow the instructions above, but use “Own Your Life 10” as the subject line, and we’ll send a link to download your free gifts. Pre-order your copy of Own Your Life and receive a free copy of 7 Daily Inspirations to Own Your Life by Sally Clarkson! Get a week of inspirations, scripture, and prayers to find days that bring out the best version of you with Sally Clarkson’s 7 Daily Inspirations to Own Your Life.

Thanks for sharing my book with your friends!

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Owning Your Marriage and Home

"A good woman is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds." -Proverbs 31:10

To be a good wife calls upon all the best that I can possibly be--my spirituality, intellect, wisdom, relational skills, creativity, artistry, perseverance, character, and beauty. It seems that in this narcissistic time, when people are self-centered and self-absorbed, all of life focuses on the selfish needs of the person concerned. Is my husband gratifying me? Does his love fill me up?

But, marriage, like all issues of life, is really about pleasing God, not my will but His be done. Most of us were not trained to be unselfish and so having to do so in marriage is a shock and surprise to our immature characters. And of course media has not prepared us for reality--bills, illness, less than perfect spouses, differences of values and personalities and commitments. Cinderella is a story, not a promise of the way life goes. The key to owning your life through a successful marriage is the way you face the difficulties where expectations and reality are not the same thing--it is where love, grace, beauty and wisdom have a place to flourish.

Many well-intentioned ministries and speakers focus on the behavior of marriage (“Are you being submissive to your husband?”) which indeed is part of scripture’s direction. But I think the better place to start is not with the behavior--”Have you kept the law of marriage?” but with the center of marriage; the heart. What is your heart toward marriage, your husband, and the legacy you will leave to your children?

God has entrusted you to a great identity of owning your home, owning your marriage, and finding ways to cultivate and infiltrate beauty, peace, and love. Learning how to stand on convictions and wise ways without nagging is an art to be learned. In our marriage, we are as iron sharpening iron when we live with the tension of friendship and love and are both so much better for the commitment to our ideals. As you continue to decorate, cook, or bring anything into our home, ask yourself if you are truly owning and building your home. Are your words, actions, thoughts, and motives building a home for your husband and family, or are they destructive, selfish, and tearing apart God’s design?

As women, and as wives, we have a huge responsibility from God. We are powerful, and we have the ability to bring life, beauty, and build a home that flourishes and a husband who is nurtured, or we have the power to destroy all of it with our own hands and our own words.

How can you choose to own your life when it comes to your marriage and home?

***Don't forget that my new book, Own Your Life, is now available for pre-order!

Own Your Life, my new book--and free bonus gifts!

I am so excited to share my new book with you!

Own Your Life book is a legacy of my life lived well for the purposes of God from seeing the faithfulness of God during every season of my life.

After over 40 years of serving Christ, 34 years of marriage, 31 years of raising four vibrant children, and ministering to countless thousands of women all over the world, I sense that each woman longs to have a purposeful life, filled with love, the goodness of God, and one that will leave a legacy. However, living intentionally must come from having a plan that fits into our busy worlds.  I learned a truth that has helped me my whole life--simplify, stay focused, live for what will matter for eternity, invest in real people. Paul’s words to the Philippian church always helped me to simplify my commitments, “But one thing I do … I press on toward the goal for the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

Paul knew that he had to choose to own his life for the sake of Christ–he had one chance to live the one life he was given for God. It is a choice I made in my early twenties after reading Philippians 3:7-14 and have lived by ever since as a woman, wife, and mother. When Tyndale Publishing House asked me to write this new book, Own Your Life, I took it as a challenge not only to look back at my life of walking with God, but also as an opportunity to encourage and inspire women all over the world.

This Book is About How You Can Own Your Life

Don’t worry, that doesn’t mean doing more than you’re already doing, as though activity is the mark of ownership. Guilt is not on the agenda! Rather, I want every woman to be renewed and refreshed in a personal life vision with the conviction that you can say with Paul: “I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus.” I want you to find deep, rich, and meaningful fulfillment in the life of faith you are giving and living for God.

Each year, I am reminded afresh that our weary world needs a restoration of biblical messages and a challenge for women who have chosen to own their lives for God’s glory. Mary, when told by the angel Gabriel that she would be the mother of the Son of God, responded with faith: “I am the Lord’s servant … May it be done to me as you have said.” (Luke 1:38). She owned the life God was giving her. She embraced the legacy He had for her. Each of us will find God's favor and blessing when we are free to live the life He has created for us uniquely. There is a reason tea cups and coffee cups have meant a lot to me! :) Hope you will watch my short video to find out why!

(Can't see the video? Click here)

Specific Areas of Encouragement

• Learning to love who God has made you, leaving guilt and inadequacy behind
• Living into the generous, abounding and unconditional love of God
• Finding peace, rest and strength to live the life God has given you
• Discovering the ministry moments God has designed for you to engage in every day
• Finding contentment right where you are, single, married or somewhere in between
• Building a home environment that gives life to all who come there
• Becoming the friend and lover of all, that God created you to be
• Embracing your ministry of parenting and learning how to do it with grace
• Building a long term story of faithfulness in your marriage
• Leaving a legacy of a strong faith, generous love, an intentional life

Pre-Order Own Your Life! Plus, Gifts For You!

Own Your Life is now available for preorder! You can get order it from Amazon or Barnes and Noble.

Pre-order your book by January 5, 2015 and receive these special offers!

Pre-order One Book

Receive a FREE exclusive 7-Day Devotion by me to start the process of Owning Your Life.

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Pre-order Five or More Copies

Receive the FREE 7-Day Devotion plus a FREE study guide for small groups, a FREE 6-minute Introduction Video from me about the book, and five FREE beautiful, sharable, printable posters with quotations to inspire you to Own Your Life.

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Pre-order 10 or More Copies (Group study!)

Receive all of the above plus a FREE personal greeting recorded by Sally for your Group that will be studying, Own Your Life! You will also be entered to win one hour of free mentoring from me and a digital download of Whole Heart Ministries’ new book: Taking Motherhood to Hearts ~ How to Start, Lead, and Tend Your Mom Heart Group (a 30,000 word book!).

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In order to receive your gifts, you will need to send a picture of your receipt to momentum@tyndale.com (use subject OWN YOUR LIFE).

We can only become heroes in our own stories. I pray this book encourages women all over the world  like you, to embrace God's story for you, so that each day can become a place of blessing, meaning and grace as you walk in God's vision for your life.

Study it with a friend, with a group, or enjoy it in the quiet of your own home. I am so motivated by the stories friends have shared with me about their own lives and goals for this year. Be sure to see sweet women like yourself sharing their own goals of owning their lives on my Facebook page, HERE, and share a picture of yourself, family, or life and tell us how you are going to own your life in 2015.

Blessings and blessings abundant to each of you today. Thanks so very much for letting me share this with you!

Sally

P.S. I have some really fun news to share in the next few days. If you'd like to make sure you hear it, just enter your email in the email box on my sidebar to the right (and up a bit). No spam, just announcements and articles from my blog.

Choosing to Pursue

"Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another with love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more, as you see the day drawing near." -Hebrews 10: 23-25

There are not many people whose lives really encourage us to press on, to walk in the presence of the Lord, to love others graciously and unconditionally and to believe God with all my heart. Thankfully, though, there are a few people who do make me feel more filled up when I have spent time with them--more ready to face life again, to finish well, to trust God.

Often, I have shared that if you want to find the best kind of friend, find someone you can do ministry with--someone who loves God and wants to make a difference in the world. In the midst of working together, praying, and serving people, you will grow together in memory making, faith, and accountability.

There are many wonderful people in my life, but only a handful who are truly close to me and really pursue me--to take the initiative to engage in my heart's issues and also share with me what they have been learning. These friends pray with me, send me emails to tell me they love me or appreciate what I have written, and find other ways to take time to invest in my life. In other words, they do not just love and accept me--they purposefully engage my soul each time we are together, and even when we are not! They pursue me and build me up, without me have to ask.

Choosing to pursue is an act of obedience. Taking responsibility to encourage and to give life-giving words, to redeem our time is one of the best reflections of the reality of Christ in our lives. God always initiated. Purposefully reaching out to those He would touch through us is the foundation of initiative--that intention that says, "I will pursue you--I will care for you--I will encourage you." When we pursue our children, our husband, our friends and others in our lives who may be needy, we can preserve them from despair, condemnation, and surrendering to less than God’s best. Even being intentional through smiles and cups of tea shared can transform lives. We may even help them change their destiny, by giving them the courage to hold fast their hope--to end well--to wait long enough for God to show His grace.

So He sends us to initiate, to find those who need the love and life of Christ, before they even ask. We don't initiate because we feel like it--we may be weary, and discouraged ourselves. But we do it out of obedience, because He did it, and it is His supernatural grace that drives us to give of ourselves to others.

Take a moment to complete the reflection and application below:

• “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:16 In this verse, we see God’s initiative! Because He loved us, He gave His Son. Who does God bring to mind that you might need to take initiative with, today?

• Sometimes when I start considering reaching out to a child or friend, I think, “Oh, I can always do it later.” But Gal. 6:10 reminds us: “So then, while we have opportunity let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.” Opportunity doesn’t last forever! Think of someone who has been a wonderful influence in your life, and write them a quick note of thanks.

Delight and Be

Every year in December, our family prays about where we would like to give a special financial gift to a place or places where people are less fortunate than us, or to a cause we truly believe in! Not only is my sweet daughter-in-law, Rachael, involved in this ministry, but the leader and visionary founder is also a long friend of Whole Heart Ministry. I love them both! Imagine helping generations of young women finding wholeness, a call to Biblical femininity, understanding the importance of marriage and family and leading young women to Jesus!

(Today, my daughter-in-law, Rachael Lee Clarkson, is sharing about an important cause through a ministry she is a part of that is very close to her heart.)

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You can find me in the center of the picture above, in my hat and giant, fuzzy jacket (this California girl was just a little chilly at a retreat in Washington a couple weeks ago). For almost two years, I have been incredibly blessed with the opportunity  and privilege to be a part of Delight and Be as a mentor, big sister, and leader for young women. At age 17, I moved out to Los Angeles from Florida to pursue my career in the entertainment industry. While Hollywood is not an easy place to discover who you are as a young woman, I realize even now at age 23 that in today's culture, it isn't easy for anyone no matter where they live. Community is the glue that has held me together. Authentic, genuine accountability and friendship is an extremely rare and precious gift that has absolutely changed my life.

There is a quote from one of my favorite books, Life Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer, that so eloquently states this truth:

“The physical presence of other Christians is a source of incomparable joy and strength to the believer.”

Wherever you find yourself on this day, I encourage you to take a moment, stop what you’re doing, and jump in your time machine. Travel back to your teenage years…specifically when you were between the ages of 13-21. Regardless of your experience, I think we can all agree that growing into the young women God designed us to be is no easy task...especially when we attempt to do this on our own.

For the past year and a half, God has transformed my life through Delight. Delight is home...Delight is family...Delight is a place where I now have hundreds of little sisters and big sisters to do life with.

Delight gives girls inspiration to get involved in developing their skills and desires to be in the arts, while teaching them about Biblical foundations upon which to build their life--and ways to live and learn about the love of God.

We are seeking to set up our ministry as a non-profit and using our house for more retreats and spreading the retreat model all over where girls can come to be inspired.

Delight is the place where creative girls, ages 13-21 can experience the unconditional love of God, growing closer to Him while simultaneously growing closer in community to hundreds of other young women who remind them that they are not alone. Being a teenager isn’t easy and it can be especially difficult when you’re a ‘creative weirdo’ that doesn’t fit the mold. But in Delight, ‘weird’ is the norm. Creatives are free to be who God created them to be: unique, quirky, silly, and fun daughters of the King.

What started as a retreat for photographers has now grown into a ministry that celebrates all areas of the creative arts. We are so excited for this upcoming year as we have plans to really focus on these seven areas : Theater/Drama, Culinary Arts, Music, Graphic Arts (graphic design, drawing, painting, etc), Photography/Videography, Dance, and Writing/Blogging.

I just got back from Washington, where we prayed and brainstormed about the future of this ministry, and knew that in order to become all that God has for it/us, we have to become a non-profit organization. But like many other things in life, the non-profit process requires funds.

We set up an indiegogo site and are already more than half way to our goal (in LESS than two weeks time! It’s been incredible to see how God provides!) but we still need more partners to come alongside us as we push on toward the vision that God has given.

Please pray about becoming a character in this story that God is writing! Skip a coffee run or two this month and invest that $10 in the next generation of Godly young women instead. Or if giving isn’t an option, please help us spread the word by sharing this post! Everything donated beyond the $10,000 mark goes toward scholarships for girls to get to these retreats, and to the Delight House, which will be a safe haven to love and care for our fellow sisters.

We want to see every single creative young lady find purpose in her God-given gifts and talents.  Thank you for helping invest in the futures of these incredible young women.

Link to give: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/delight-ministry-non-profit-campaign

Delight and Be Blog site: http://www.delightandbe.com

Delight on FB: https://www.facebook.com/delightandbe

Love, Rachael Lee Clarkson

There is always hope! Five things to do when you are discouraged!

Sally,

I am so thankful for your blog and your books have been such a blessing in my life. I consider you my mentor though you do not know me personally. I’m sure this is the wrong “forum” to ask a question, and if you do not respond I understand. But I dare to ask anyway.

What do you do when your life doesn’t come close to how you believe it should look? I read your words and I’m thankful for the vision you cast. But for some time the vision I have for my home seems so far from my reality and I have no idea how to reconcile the two, even in my mind. Discouragement and frustration have started to seep in.

As a mama of three little boys, a homeschool mother, and a pastor’s wife, I don’t believe there is enough of me to go around and I’m starting to feel like I can’t even cover the basics, much less enjoy the riches of this season. I’m sure this is just part of the journey and a part of life that every wife and mother must face, but I don’t want to end up taking the wrong path because I gave up hope for the best.

I feel guilty for more and more things – what I cook (or don’t cook), allowing my children too much watch TV or play the Wii too long, not teaching them well or enough or the right things, not keeping up with just the daily things that make a house run, letting down those that I love most. Is there a way to hit the reset button and just start over once you’ve allowed habits to form in yourself and your children that you don’t like? I believe God’s grace is enough. And I value wisdom from those I know have walked this path and stayed on course."

From A heartfelt comment I received yesterday.How great her attitude to seek wise counsel. I would find wise women and then copy them!

Countless times, I felt like I was not accomplishing anything productive. This is such a hard job, to love, educate and help shape our children's faith. It is especially challenging in a culture that offers so much differing advice that brings voices into our heads, which then that produces guilt and inadequacy. This same culture is isolationist and  provides few support systems or Biblical direction.

So many moms feel this way, but feelings do not necessarily determine reality!

Five principles have helped me when I am overwhelmed.

1. Remember. God is with you to help you succeed.

"If God is for you, who can be against you." God is for you--for you. He wants you to succeed. He wants to work in your home. We are not adequate to complete the task of shaping our children's hearts, minds and souls by ourselves. When God's Spirit is working in our midst, He will take our fish and loaves, all that we have to give to Him, within our own limitations and together with Him, our labor becomes enough. I lived into this principle, asked God to make up for my shortcomings every day, and by faith lived as though what He promised was true. He is for you, mamas, if your heart is to serve Him. He has compassion on you, knows your weariness, and is your champion.

2. "There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." Romans 8:1 There are always do-overs in God's economy. All of us mess up, (He is mindful that we are but dust! Psalm 103) Peter blew it royally when he denied Christ at his hour of need, but before he even sinned, Jesus knew what was going to happen, and told Peter he had prayed for him. Jesus had compassion before Peter had even committed the act of denying Christ.

I wonder why we have the illusion that we are supposed to be perfect. Mamas, don't be so hard on yourself and live within your limitations. You will not ever be perfect or do it totally right--not now, not next week, not even when you are 60! (Maybe when I am 70, I will be perfect1) And to live in guilt because you have blown it or yelled at your kids or made mistakes is a big drainer. Depression is often the result of disappointed expectations. And often we disappoint our ideals.

But this is the fallen world, and we will never be able to control ourselves, our circumstances, our children or the world the live in. We live in grace and move toward maturity little by little. And so do your children. I promise, little by little they will grow up.

And your children will never be perfect, either. Love them as they are. Believe in them, touch them. Let little boys be boys, as you train them little by little to be heroes and leaders--civilization comes from a mama who treats them with respect, and gives them a heart to be dignified.

Let little ones be innocent and enter into their stages of life with joy.

Living in the grace and knowledge that God forgives, knows our limitations, is not surprised or disappointed, but wanting to give us hope is so very crucial. Don't listen to the accusers voice. Of course you have fallen short--you are a mom and you are human.

3. "He lay down and slept under a juniper tree; and behold, there was an angel touching him, and he said to him, "Arise, eat." I Kings 19:5

Elijah was so very weary from spiritual battle that he despaired of his life--wished he hadn't been born. But God knew he was extremely exhausted, battle worn, weary. So the first thing God did when Elijah poured out his heart to Him was to put him to sleep. He slept a long time--took time to physically rest. Next, and I love this, an angel touched him--physical touch, a hug, an embrace, a hand massage, a real massage, is a personal healer. I love it that God's angel touched him and brought him comfort. Then, he still didn't give him a lecture--instead, the angel fed him.

Sometimes mamas have been going for so long without a break, they start breaking down. A wise woman will learn her limitations and learn to say "no" so that she does not live in a constant state of exhaustion. And don't feel guilty for saying no. You can only hold so many ideals at once, so be sure to hold on the ones that matter. And do what you are best at doing--don't compare your life to someone else. And you may have to say no to some ministry at church for a season. Be reasonable--Jesus would never ask you to do everything--that is something you are putting on yourself--I know! I was in ministry and want to be available to everyone--but I just can't meet all needs and have peace in my home. You might just need to start out your new beginning with sleep, a touch of gentle love and eating well--perhaps exercising--and then take time to ponder and plan..

We are not just minds and hearts--we are bodies with limitations. If we over-exert, we will crash and burn. When others are taking from us 24/7, we must wisely learn that taking care of ourselves is essential to our emotional and spiritual and physical well being. This season, if you are tired, be sure to take a break--get some rest, seek some physical comfort and restoration, eat well. You deserve to be cared for--even if you have to plan for it yourself. I know I kept waiting for someone to give me permission--didn't happen. Finally, I took responsibility for my own happiness so that I could be happier and stronger for my kids on this long term journey.

I make beauty to remind me that I am worth something-I light candles, get some flowers at Sam's or Costco's--the kind that last 2 weeks, and I play music all the time.

4. "He who walks with the wise, grows wise, but  a companion of fools suffers harm." Proverbs

You might need some inspiration, some help, some counsel, some perspective. Find someone older, more experienced, wiser to meet with and ask them to help you come up with a plan. Sometimes this is easier said than done. But I have found that when I give up my pride and take the courage to pour out my heart to wise people or more mature people, I usually find compassion and often find help. This is not always true--be discerning about who you entrust yourself to as there is a lot of foolish advice around.

My mentors for many years, were books. I was always finding books that were written by women or men older and more insightful in life. People will die for lack of instruction. I would seek to read, educate myself, find wisdom, find models of wisdom, integrity and I was a learner. I determined to learn and to get better every year.

This means being teachable and changing when we need to. We were also built for community. That is why every book I have written, I have designed to be able to be used in a small group, because godly friends are essential to my long term growth. Find wise people, books, conferences, a church, the word of God and gain wisdom. Just decide to get better every day, every year--grow, progress--don't expect instant maturity on your part or your children's.

5."But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits." God's wisdom and leading lead us to peace, mercy and good fruit. Each of us must evaluate--what is stealing my peace? What is sucking my energy? How can I change it? This is a long distance run, not a spring--wisdom from above will teach you to pace yourself--and not to say yes just to please others. You are quite free to be yourself, live your own story, live within your own limitations.

What notions are misleading you? Boys are given testosterone from God for a reason--they are supposed to grow up and be strong! Work with them, accept their noise, invest in their hearts, don't try to control them--lead and inspire and train them little by little. (The 24 Family ways is a great tool for beginning to lay foundations for all the family together.)

What is not producing good fruit--your schedule? Your lack of rhythms and consistency with your children? Your lack of training with your children? Then put your finger on what is bothering you and make a practical step forward. How are you going to eliminate the stressors you have control over? How can you eliminate some of the drainers? What is one way you will become stronger and  more disciplined in the next month. Be very honest about what you must cut or quit doing or is your flaw and be vigilant about pursuing the wisdom that provides peace and good fruit.

Do first things, first. I always did devotions with the kids, first, every day. And then I read to them next. Because worshipping God has stayed with them as the oxygen we breathed every day and reading has taught all of them to think. So if I didn't get anything else done--thy would worship God and engage in ideas--this has made all of them intellectually strong.

Say no! Limit yourself. Don't accept responsibilities out of guilt. Don't join activities because of voices.  And also, write down what fills you, inspires your heart, gives you a break, helps to keep you going a little bit longer--that is wisdom--creating a life that is more pleasant for yourself, more doable. Don't copy someone else's life, and don't compare your children to others. Be yourselves and live your own happy story. God wants you to breathe and have freedom.

Well, I could go on for another 5. But, these are just a few of the things I have learned to do when I find myself walking a dark, discouraging path. Remember, there is always hope when you live in the love of God. This task of raising healthy, godly kids is not beyond reach. You just need to own your commitments, your wisdom, your choices and practice growing stronger. It doesn't happen all at once. And remember,

"The path of the righteous is like the light of dawn which shines brighter and brighter until the fulll day." Proverbs--every day, a little more light, a little more progress, and eventually, full brightness.

I am praying for all of you--but even more, God is praying for you and loves you. Don't give into discouragement or inadequate feelings. With God all things are possible. He is so glad you are trying and that you care.  You are precious to Him and He is training your character to grow strong as you are training your children.

Off to bed, but I know you are going to be ok, because He will work in your life if you leave your burdens in His hands and He who began a good work will complete it--in His time, little by little, but fully complete it. God's peace to you today!

As the Pressure of the season mounts, remember: God prefers You! Mentoring Monday

 Joy and Sarah--"Mama, I can't wait to come home-- lets just talk for hours and hours!"

Each December, knowing the stress and busyness of Christmas can create havoc if I let the whirlwind of expectations catch up with me, so I spend some time deciding what kind of person I want to give to my friends and family, how I will simplify. I also want to love Jesus well, but that requires planning on my part.

Especially when they were little, I had to make a plan--how to own my Christmas in such a way that I treasured what was important.

Now, letters and emails come from my children who are far away, and family who will be visiting, and friends who expect the events I have always held at my home for years and years play into my planning.

"Mom, let's do all the homey stuff--have breakfast in our jammies, drink tea together and talk and talk by the Christmas tree, every day. Let's make each moment count!"

These are the times that spell love to my children--TIME-my focussed time. And it was so when they were little ones.

Yesterday, I was decorating the dining room table while Clay and Joel worked on the tree. Josh Groben's song, "I'll be home for Christmas" began to play and I teared up, just getting excited, and oh so thankful to have all my children home with me, by my side, in my home, to touch, watch, laugh with and do life together.

And I don't want to waste a minute on busyness and distraction-but I want to plan and work so that I can have the most time loving all of my precious family and friends well.

As I thought about this, I looked through old journal entries, old blogs from holiday times, and my heart was reminded again, what was important--those moments that hold fast in the treasure chest of our children's souls.

Especially this one time, an unexpected grace, to touch, to enjoy, to giggle with, to celebrate life. It was a real life  moment when I could enter into the joy of being a mama and celebrate the gift of friendship with my best friends, my children.

Joy and Sarah, had entertained me in their sleepiness a cold December night, just two seasons ago.But the memory warms me still because I feel so very close to them--and indeed understood and accepted. They have become my dear friends.

Somehow, as I closed the affairs of my day and began to climb the stairs to bed, my legs felt heavier than ever. Each step reminded me how tired I was from the day of shopping at three stores, teaching a class, running around to get groceries, to the bank to deposit money a child needed, cooking and eating and washing dishes one more time. I am bone-tired lately at the end of each day.

At the top of the stairs, I heard loud music coming from Joy's room. Multi-colored paisley cloth, buttons, headbands, strewn all around her, as she diligently sowed presents for her friends. "I Dreamed a Dream" from Les Miserable was waxing eloquently out of her speakers. (a song about a young woman who met a man who, "took her childhood in his stride," and left her pregnant, without any support--a truly touching song for us as we ponder sweet, lost women in our own culture.) It is one of our mutually favorite Broadway songs called me to sit on her bed and sing loudly with the lovely voice on You tube.

"You know, Mom, though I do think that song applies to so many girls, I also think that 'On My Own" is just as poignant!" So, I sat on her bed, legs crossed under me, jammied all about, computer on my lap and played this piece loudly, while again singing it from my heart, along with the soloist on you tube, with Joy giggling at me. "I didn't know you had it in you this late at night."

Discussing the depths of these two songs for few minutes, as only a late night brings on, giggling and chatting a bit more, I finally left her to make her Christmas gifts alone. How I do love this funny daughter of mine--the one with a hysterical sense of humor, always singing, always teaching me something from what she has been thinking, a friend of friends.

And so, it seemed only right to push Sarah's door open. "Are you asleep yet?"

"Not much chance of sleeping with you two next door," she commented wryly.

She resting like a princess, with covers up to her chin, long brown hair spread out on her pillow with soft light glowing from one tiny lamp, her Bible in hand.  Squishing against her, while sitting on the side of her bed, I asked her how she was doing. With a book deadline looming large and mission trips and college applications to finish, and expensive and challenging decisions to make, she, too, was weary and exhausted.

I reached out and gently massaging her fingers and arms, we commiserated about our own personal loads we were carrying, and talked about yielding them into His hands. I picked up a ceramic rabbit  from her table, next to her bed and made it  jump on her bed covers, just like I had done when she was a little girl and needed comic relief. (Don't know what possessed me.) We laughed and laughed at some antics that came up between us, and finally I said, "Tell me a Jesus thing before I go to bed. I need something in my mind before I go to sleep."

She smiled knowing me, and how often I live in condemnation for the little failures in my day, and opened the Bible to where she had been reading.

"Oh, how great a love the Father has bestowed upon us, that we should be called children of God, and so we are." I John 3: 2-3

And suddenly my heart was filled with thanksgiving. Even as I had been delighting in my own sweet children, feeling I could be myself, resting and rejoicing in our mutual, close relationship, with the strings of their heart to tightly tied to mine, I immediately felt relieved in my heart, and accepted and at rest myself, because God also saw me as his beloved, cherished child.

You see, I prefer Joy and Sarah, my very own children. I have spent thousands and thousands of dollars on them. I have given them my time, my body, my sleepless nights, cooked thousands of meals, sought to make celebrations so very special in buying them gifts, crafting a life, putting them to bed with blessing on countless nights, forgiven them their attitudes and messes, and still preferred them from all the other people in the world--because they are mine--my  very own, coming out of my body, beloved children.

And so God, has bestowed such a great and endless and personal love for me-He has created sunrises and sunsets for me to behold every day. Placing music in my soul, He came to bring peace to my world, delight to my days, to share my moments and burdens and joys, to be my own companion in the beauty of each day.

-I am preferred and forgiven and cherished and served and thought about by Him, because I am His very own child. Even as I can, in my own limited sinful way, enjoy and celebrate my children's lives and moments and be intimate friends sharing hearts, laughter, weariness and needs, so He, as my Father, has bestowed all of His love in these very same ways on me, even knowing me to my depths, and yet willing to keep giving, celebrating life, listening, helping, comforting--because I am His very special, chosen, related to Him child.

Unimaginable, astounding that He, our heavenly Father, should love me so. And that this was the heart of the Prince of peace--to bring joy, light into my darkness, love, humor, grace--peace to my days, especially in December 

For you to remember this this day, this month, this year, He loves you so! Prepare ye the way of the Lord to enter your home this season, this day. 

And this is what I am most thankful for this year--thankful that I am His own beloved child--that He loves and enjoys me in spite of it all, through my limitations, my weariness, my vulnerable moments, because He is my Father. My thanksgiving days will spill into my Christmas celebration of His choosing to adopt me and longing to love me every day.

This is the thought I want to cherish through my December days--that He prefers me, He longs for my own little girl heart to find rest and comfort in Him and His abiding presence, that it is not the craziness that will bring me through, but the choices I make to prepare the way for Him, His love and peace to fill my heart through all the moments of my Christmas days.

And of course, these thoughts make me so very thankful for my family and thankful for you, my friends, where we will choose to celebrate Him this year together, through each moment of each day.