Thirty-one years ago today I pledged to love and cherish one man only, and I am proud to say my love for him has grown deeper and wider than I ever imagined possible! Praise God for entrusting me with Cecil MacLaren's heart. It was a wonderful day when he gave me his heart. It was a wonderful thing, Lord, you making it possible. What a lovely journey. Yes, there have been a few ups and downs along the way, but the greater part of this journey has been a tremendous thrill. Thank you, Lord.

____________________________________________

Today's Bible passage came from Psalm 27. "The Lord is my light and my salvation--so why should I be afraid? The Lord protects me from danger--so why should I tremble?"

This whole chapter speaks to the issue of trust in the midst of chaos. I love that even when I'm frenzied and panicked over deadlines, personal responsibilities, Christmas shopping, appointments, program rehearsals, holiday parties/entertaining, and the list goes on...God can quiet my heart with a simple verse of scripture. As I was reading this chapter, I stopped in my tracks at verse 8 -- "My heart has heard you say, "Come and talk with me." And my heart responds, "Lord, I am coming."

Very simply, God wants (even longs) to commune with us. He wants to hear about our busyness, go with us on our shopping sprees, listen in as we struggle to learn the songs for the Christmas services, tag along to the holiday parties, accompany us to our appointments. He wants to be with us. Question is--am I making a conscious effort to INVITE Him?

Lord, I invite you now to take control of my thoughts, my comings and goings. Help me not to forget YOU are the REASON for the season.

Sharlene MacLaren/ www.sharlenemaclaren.com