Gift bags

What a great day!  Christmas Eve!  (It's actually Christmas now!)  It was a day filled with family, friends, and baby Jesus!
I spent half of the day at my in- law's.  As I was leaving to go to church late this afternoon, I mentioned that I was going to spend the time between services wrapping and that I was bummed because our supply of gift bags had run out.  My mother- in- law told me she had a bunch of extras so I happily left with a new supply of gift bags.  Why is this important? 
As I was driving away, I realized I now didn't need to spend that time wrapping.  I had more time to do other things.  I enjoyed a 5:00 family service at my church- the message of anticipating Jesus, of the realization of the amazing gift God gave us, and bringing it all to something we can understand by relating it to parents welcoming their own child into this world and the wonder of it all.  A tiny helpless child bringing hope to so many over 2000 years later!  The music was great, as always, and I got to hear my son play in the band.
Then, since I didn't have hours of wrapping to do, I decided to join my in- law's, nieces, and my husband's grandma for a service at the church I used to go to.  It was a lovely service, too.  The message of unexpected visitors and always welcoming others by talking about the innkeeper made me think of my grandma, who was the most hospitable person I ever knew.  And, also it made me think of this holiday season and how it has been a joy to share it not only with family, but to invite friends who didn't have a place to go on a holiday.  That has been a great joy and has added to our celebrations.  The music was beautiful- a children's choir and ending with the Hallelujah Chorus!
After that, it was back to my church for another service.  This was the more traditional service and I enjoyed the music and the children's choir.  On my way into the sanctuary, I heard a member say her husband was in the hospital.  My heart went out to her as I remember a few years back when I was her.  Hospitals are no fun on Christmas!  I sat by some good friends and shared some smiles and laughs.  Afterwards, one of my youth gave me a gift from all of the youth, a beautiful wind chime.
I realize how blessed I am to be surrounded by so many wonderful people- to love and be loved!  I hope that those of you reading this know that you are loved, that God is here among us in so many ways,  and, that on this day, we celebrate the greatest gift of love, a baby born to save us all!
Blessings of hope, peace, joy, and love to all,
Jennifer