Here we are, twelve days before Christmas! So far, December has been stereotypically busy with the usual hustle and bustle of the season. It has been relatively warm during the day here, with temps in the upper 30's or low 40's. On my drive home from work, my habit has been to drop the top and enjoy the expansive view of our valley! It's a great way to unwind from the day!

As we look forward to a good Christmas celebration this year, there is one thought that I would like to leave with you. When considering God, (who He is, what He does, what He is like), and especially as we consider the celebration of the advent of Christ, the Word becoming flesh and all that would come of that, I would like you to ask yourself a question. Am I more satisfied with the Giver or the gift? At Christmas, we recognize the Giver and the Gift as one, but I believe the temptation is to often appreciate "what is given" rather than "Who" gave it. Let's choose, by God's help, to stay focused on Him this Christmas-season, and throughout the coming year!