What is there to say as we approach the most magnificent of seasons.  I could talk about the joy many of us feel at this time of the year as family draws near and friends come to call.

I could talk about the peace that fills us when we watch the ‘wee ones’ look with eyes filled with wonder at all the tinsel and lights.

I could talk about the other side of the holiday.  The side that notices many go without at this time of the year.  I could say something - only briefly as not to dash the mood - about those who feel blue, depressed and without hope.  I could comment ever so lightly about family rifts that never get healed and cause more pain than we can imagine at this time of year.

But I’m not going to say much of anything about any of the above as I complete today’s message and then dash off myself to finish last minute grocery shopping and card-buying.

There is something about the miracle of birth that speaks to the heart of women around the globe!  Whether this season is an opportunity to pause and celebrate the birth of our King, Jesus Christ the Lord or a simple celebration of a sentimental story contained in a great piece of religious literature; one cannot deny that at this time each year - the miracle of birth touches our hearts and reminds us that there is always hope afresh and anew for wherever we are in the journey of life.

The thought of a babe, born in the humblest of surroundings and loved by his adoring parents, draws us with the deep longings that only a loving God can do!  Birth in human form is the world’s greatest metaphor for hope restored, possibilities unlimited and awesome potentiality.

Women understand, more than anyone, the miraculous nature of being a vessel for bringing new life into the world.  Even if we have never or as yet experienced such an event in our lives; our very nature is designed to nourish, protect, comfort and adore that which is new, fresh, untouched and untainted.

As we rush about doing all the last minute chores that we think must be done to make the season - the season; may we stop long enough to reflect on how the world came to celebrate in such a way something so simple as the birth of a child in an obscure corner of the world so long ago.

When the strains of the beautiful hymns and carols of the season seek to melt our hearts and blow away prejudices, disagreements, stress and pain; may we be open to allow that which tugs and pulls at our hearts to upzip and unlock without restraint.  Let tears that cleanse flow.  Let struggles we feared would overtake us melt and drain away.  Let pain we thought unbearable, disappear from our awareness.

Let us remember the miracle of birth and what it holds for us all!

Have an awesome day with much love and rich blessings!

  Linda