Pinecone votive designed by Ellie G. http://www.mercantileartisticpaperie.com/

The old expression states "Tis' the season to be jolly" As we come to the end of 2015 

I can't help to think that everyday is a day to be jolly and spread cheer wherever we go and with whomever we are with.  When I saw this votive light-up and the light it cast out over the dark room, I was reminded of our LORD's words:

 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.  Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. -Matt. 5:14-16
I wonder today in this season of the year or this season of my life, "Am I  being that light? do I reflect HIM-in my words, my thoughts and my actions?" if not-- IT is a good day to light my candle and throw "JOY/CHEER" onto others from the light that is reflected from within me. As your holiday approaches remember that the reason we have this season of sharing and gifting is that CHRIST was the center and the beginning of our nation heralding in "we are a CHRISTian nation" & we are "a light to the world". CHRIST was born into this world to be a light in darkness to lead men out of darkness into HIS marvelous light. HE is the "Joy to the World" without HIM there is no peace nor can there be hope. HE makes things beautiful-HE creates Joy and Cheer not only during a part of the year but everyday. As we allow HIM to shine light through us and touch others-light is cast into the lives of others and a flickering flame can become a torch. People all around us need the warmth of a fire to Cheer their hearts and bring them hope.
 Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”-John 8:12
Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 11:1 -"Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ."
True joy comes when HE is first in our life and we shine our light and allow others to find HIM through our everyday encounters.

As we ponder this joyful season and recall the reason it came to being. REJOICE in our living SAVIOR!!! HE came that we might have life and have it more abundantly-

A couple of CHRISTmas songs that have stood the test of time. 
"God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen"-c.1650
"God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen"

"Hark, the Herald Angels Sing"-1739 or earlier 
 "Hark, the Herald Angels Sing"

"Silent Night"-1818
"Silent Night"



"Good, Christian Men Rejoice" -1849
"Good, Christian Men Rejoice"

And as we get further away in history from the birth of our LORD our songs become even more powerful!! Why you ask?  because HE LIVES!!!
CHRISTmas playlist