His Stocking is Empty, But the Manger Isn't; Finding Christmas Joy

His stocking is empty. 

The stocking I made to match with Cedric's.

 A stocking I have filled for 17 precious years. 

Stockings that were 4 and then became 8 and this year would have been 9. 

 But after 17 years.

 It is empty. 

It hangs limp, while all the others burst from the seams; awaiting their precious owners.

But it's not about the stockings, or the tree.

It's not about the presents; but His presence. 

And as I stepped outside this morning, the heavens declared their Majesty. 

The moon and the stars in all their bright, glory rang out the song that Jesus is born. 

He came, He walked this earth, He suffered and died for you and for me. 

But today. 

We celebrate His birth. 

Isaiah 9:6

For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

We celebrate the joy and the greatest gift he gave; himself. 

So while Elijah's stocking is empty, the manger isn't.

It is full. 

Full of life and joy all for you and me. 

Embrace the gift so freely given. 

We can lay down all that troubles us and leave it in the manger.
We can pick up that baby boy and carry him with us.
And the funny thing is; he will carry us. 

That is grace and mercy. 

Psalm 23:6

Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, 

and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

We continue to receive blessing from friends and strangers.
A beautiful Christmas bouquet to adorn our table.
Life.
A barn full of help this morning so my farmer can get back to the house for awhile.
The presence of Christ in your life and the presence of your life in another's are the beginnings of understanding this journey.
May you know the untold joy from the presence of Christ in your life.

Merry Christmas from The Davis Farm to all of You