On the Holiest night of the year, I was given a gift.
The child within moved.
In the hospital room at 11:48 on Christmas Eve 2002,
a child was brought forth.
Christiana Shirley Davis.
A little over a year after her namesake met Jesus.
A Grammie she would never know.
Yet, as she grew she would tell us she knew her.
And I wonder if deep down her soul did know her?
That before the Lord of the Universe sent her to us, Grammie Shirley didn't reach down and kiss that sweet angelic face and
whisper words of encouragement.
Because isn't that the way?
This holiest of nights was the encouragement of a Nation.
The promised Messiah was here.
The hope of all Nations wrapped in swaddling cloth.
Not the military figure.
Destined to bear the weight of the sin that would free us all.
An encouragement for a hurting world.
He came with a promise.
He came with hope.
On that holiest of nights.
This child born amidst the splendor and sparkle of Christmas is a gift.
They wrapped her in a large stocking and brought her to me.
And in the wee hours of that morning my heart rejoiced over life.
Her smile contagious.
Her beauty deep.
She searches and reaches to live a life of surrender.
She's silly and goofy.
Fun, loving and beautiful.
So very talented.
An eye for beauty
So many challenges in this life.
A brother, she adored, in heaven.
A world cruel with violence and refugees.
Needs abundant.
Her heart soft wanting to help.
Yet, trying to fit in with a culture sharp and harsh.
Making eternal choices.
Her journey continues as she embraces her teens.
I am looking forward to the next to last of the Davis' entering their teens.
My prayer for this beautiful daughter is that she would grow to love Jesus with all her heart.
That a deep love of His people will bubble inside her.
I pray that her gifts and talents will be used for His glory and His purposes.
So, on this Christmas Eve morning, I sit in the quiet of this century old parlor.
My heart is at peace.
My soul yearning for the time when all will be set straight.
May you all have a glorious Christmas.
Be encouraged.
Happy Birthday my dear Christiana Shirley.
If you have some time I pray that you can watch this video.
Isaiah 9:6
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.
There is Good News my friends.
Advent Lament and a Brave Merry Christmas
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