The past few years, I have considered announcing to my friends and family that during the months of November, December, and January, I shall go by my middle name, which is Joy. I have not done this, so as not to confuse or annoy anyone. Yet, once again November has come bringing a soft blanket of beautiful snow, and families have come together giving thanks for all the blessings which our dear Lord has bestowed upon us. Then we have moved on into December, where we anticipate yet another festive celebration, it is at this time we have set apart a day in which to celebrate Christ the giver of life.

I find such joy, and take great delight in spending time with my family, in the fellowship with other believers, and in worshiping and celebrating Christ.

This holiday season is a little different for me than in years past. My joy has not lessened, rather it has been increased and adorned by sorrow. Yes, I am sad and it is hard at times because we do not have little Abby with us. But when I think of Abby now, my thoughts are led to heaven where our true hope and joy is. Through the difficult times this past year, God has instilled in me a greater love and appreciation for his body the church, and also a greater understanding and reliance in the power of prayer.

I have been given, the opportunity to serve my family in a unique way. At the beginning of September, I moved into an apartment with my Grandma Ruth. I consider it a privilege to have this time with her, getting to know her and caring for her. We get along just fine, in fact, we have fast become close friends, and it is a joy to also share our faith with one another.

Greetings to all of you my loved ones, I pray that you may not lose sight of the one who humbled himself to that of a man and gave his life that we may be called the sons of God.

May He Bless You.

Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.

1 Peter 1:6-9