Our Christmas morning started very early since we knew we would have a house full for breakfast by 9 AM. As I was rushing around trying to get breakfast casseroles in the oven, cut up fruit salad, and quickly wrap a few last gifts-- I looked out the window and was hit with this view.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining / till He appeared and the Spirit felt its worth / a thrill of hope the weary world rejoices / for yonder breaks a new and glorious morn
And then I stopped. And thanked Jesus for coming. And thanked him for this New and Glorious Morn.
And remembered that He had to come, so that I could live.
It's not about the presents, it's not about the food, it's not even about being with family. All those things are great and such wonderful additions to the Christmas season, but the reason we celebrate, the reason that we are ALIVE to celebrate is because of Jesus. The giver of life. The only good and perfect gift the world will ever know.
Being far away from home and from family this Christmas season has been hard, but it has totally brought me back to this truth. That Jesus came on Christmas day and lived a perfect life and died a horrible death. For me. For you. For this fallen world. So that we could live. And that is worth celebrating.
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6
Brian started our morning off with a little family devotion from our favorite: His Utmost for My Highest.
Then: PRESENTS! Ya'll. I admit it. I feel LOVED through gifts. It's maybe not my first love language, but it's up there. Call me selfish, but I love a present. Actually, I love surprises even more than presents.
So come visit me, and don't tell me you're coming. Okay?
So come visit me, and don't tell me you're coming. Okay?
(also, my husband surprised me with an AMAZING present. it deserves it's own post.)
The People: Hey Kenz, We really wanna see what you look like before coffee with 6:30 AM sleepy eyes.
McKenzie: You people are lucky I love you.
Facetime Gift Opening with the fam! This was technically Christmas Eve. But, who's really counting?
My family is so generous! Awesome wooden chopping block from my sis, Apple TV, and a kindle fire!
Plus lots of other little treats.
Plus lots of other little treats.
My mom is an awesome gift giver, and funny enough:
I am an awesome gift receiver :)
And these are pre-Christmas Eve candle light service. We decided to get a little fancy.
Hey Handsome.
We hope that your Christmas was restful and joyful and that you were reminded of
all the ways the Lord has blessed you over the past year.
From the Hardings in Okinawa, to you, wherever you are:
Merry, Merry Christmas and a wonderful, blessed New Year!
Merry, Merry Christmas and a wonderful, blessed New Year!
