Double Portion Inspiration

Renee and I love this time of year. Some of our most precious memories come from celebrating Christmas. We plan to spend time away from work to purposefully pause and reflect on God's provision this year. We will reconnect with our kids that are home from college. We are going to cook, bake and eat. Then in January look forward to a detox to shed any extra pounds.  Before all of that, we wanted to pause and wish each of you a very Merry Christmas. This year is different but the hope of Jesus is a bright star that guides us. Hope was born in a manger. It's an expectant hope that cradles the brokenhearted. Those that are experiencing loss, we are praying with you. Until we meet again in the new year - safe passage and seasons greetings. For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. And the government will rest on his shoulders. These will be his royal titles:  Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace .  ~Isaiah 9:6 NLT

 As a young girl I remember being afraid to speak in public. I was an introvert. People would describe me as quiet and shy all during my childhood. My sister, Renee, on the other hand was always an extrovert. She is outgoing and can strike up a conversation with ANY stranger.  My mom would put us in oratorical contest where we would recite poems in front of hundreds of people (SCARY). She would also volunteer us to read scripture during youth Sunday church services (SCARY). I did NOT like it. I would have knots in my stomach thinking about speaking in front of all those people. I remember reading the story of Moses in the Bible. He was commanded to tell the big mean king Pharaoh, "let my people go." Imagine being the one given that assignment. Moses came up with many reasons and excuses on why he wasn't the person to go to the king. "But Moses pleaded with the Lord, "Oh Lord, I'm not very good with words. I never have been , and I'm not now, even though...