Every Day is a Gift

Hi, everyone!

I know it's been a while since I've written. I've been busy with library adventures and life. I know I'm not the only one when I say that I am so excited that Christmastime is here! It's such a happy, fun time of the year, especially gathering with the ones you love the most!

I'll be honest- I look forward to 2025 almost as much as I do Christmas. While there has been a lot of good and many blessings this year, it's also been a very hard and sad year for many of us. Earlier this year, I lost one of my best friends in an unexpected accident. There are still days when I grieve for her and want to talk to her, but I'm thankful she is healed, whole, and with Jesus.

After my friend's tragic death, I was struggling with a lot of different emotions. Of course, God's way is always best, but in the midst of grieving I could not help but ask Him, "why her?" Needing to talk to someone, I reached out to my childhood preacher. He has always been a source of encouragement, as well as God's word and love. Something he told me has stayed with me, even to this day.

"As we know, Amy, every day is a gift from God, and we must live each day as fully as possible."

Wow! I knew my sweet preacher could help it make sense to me. He's right, God sent His Son so we could truly live. That, in itself, is the best gift of all. What's more, we're not promised tomorrow, so we have to make the most of every day. With the Holidays approaching, I've been thinking about gifts in all senses- what to buy for everyone, as well as the most important gift of all, Jesus. He's the reason for the season and why we celebrate. Closer to the end of the year, I have realized, that He is the reason why we can truly live each day. The ultimate gift? It's been given, and continues to give, every morning when we open our eyes.

Even when things don't go as planned, and sad, terrible things can happen in this flawed (yet so beautiful) world, we can be held by God and know that He's got us, and He wants us to make the most of our time on earth for Him.

Let's get to living in the blessings and gifts God has set out for us!

Wishing you much love, peace, and joy this Christmas season and a bright, hopeful 2025!

Love always,

-Amy