~*~*~* Post Christmas Thoughts*~*~*~

Christmas came, and went. What does Christmas means to me now? In the past as a little kid, Christmas was truely a joyous season. Being surrounded by family, glorious food and presents from all my family and relatives. It used to be a time where laughter and joy filled the air. As I grow older Christmas somehow seems to be a quieter affair. No more family gatherings, no more extravagent presents, no more glorious food...

But what is the true spirit of Christmas about? Have you thought about it? It does sound cliché to say that it's a time to commemorate the birth of Jesus, but isn't is what it's all about? But this Christmas I was reminded once again that Jesus was and is the Hope of All the Earth, and all is rest assured in His great love. Sounds familar? Yes it came from a song. And as I was singing this in the Christmas service, I can't help but tell myself that all is not without Hope. Year 2002 has indeed been a choatic year for me with school, family, work and church. Many times, it really was all bleak and hopeless. Many times, defeat and anguish tormented me. Yet through it all, I have to believe that God was with me. Not easy to deal with. "Why God, are you allowing it to happen to me?" was my constant cry to Him. It's all part of growing, it's all part of the moulding process...

Once again, I'm brought back to His arms of grace. What would I do without Him? Probably lose my sanity and all will to live on. Hope of all the earth... that gives me a ray of hope that the days ahead will no doubt be faced with uncertainties. But at least one thing is for sure, He is my blessed assurance.

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace, there will be no end." - Isaiah 9:6-7