But Hope ...

This time of year fills my heart with hope. The sweet atmosphere that lingers in the home, candles lit and dancing their glow around the walls. Beautiful decorations chosen and hung with love and care to adorn the tree, making their own stunning statement. The spicy aroma of gingerbread men cooking in the oven. Turkish delight being simmered with rose-scented air filling the kitchen. Lights that twinkle and shine out making the whole scene magical. Children with eyes full of wonder and excitement at the entire jolly ordeal. 

But, hope.

Hope of salvation, hope of an eternity to come that truly will be magical. 

Hope that all that is wrong and evil and desperate in the world could possibly pause, and in it's place be poured out peace, love, joy and thankfulness. 

Generosity, giving. 

The hope that all is not lost.

The display my 13 year old son made for his bedroom.

The display my eleven year old daughter made for her bedroom.

All hope is found in that little tiny innocent baby that rested on the hay; fully God-child.

In Him, and only Him, comes all the hope that we'll ever need, 

now, and all through the year.

Merry Christmas, may your hearts be full of hope in Christ.