a hopeless Christmas . . .

That's how I feel. I know that I shouldn't, but because of the moving situation, I feel very hopeless this Christmas. I should be ashamed for saying that - there are many people who are in extremely worse situations then we are in, but Christmas has always been my favorite part of the year. I'm happy for the whole month (which makes Brock happy!) Usually we make a big deal about counting down the days until we head to TN, but this year I find myself wishing for days to slow down. I keep praying that today will be the day we find a new home. It would be such a relief to know where we we're moving before we left for TN.

As I laid awake the other night thinking of all these things, a gentle reminder came to mind- isn't this what Christmas is about?

A hopeless world receives hope.

People in need of saving are sent a Savior.

The lost are found.

The broken are healed.

The rest of the world continues on while the Son of God sleeps on hay. They have no idea of the grand design that has been set in motion. They have no idea as they sulk in their circumstances, that a God who loves them is working all things out. Suddenly, I didn't feel so hopeless. Because regardless of our circumstances, our situations or our burdens, hope did enter the world. The Messiah came and that alone is worth celebrating. So, Merry hopeful Christmas to you & yours from the Tharpe family - no matter what your troubles, celebrate that fact that we don't have to go it alone and that He works all things together for our good.

r