For the last few weeks I’ve been decorating the inside of our home for Christmas, while my husband puts decorations and lights on the outside of the house. The decorations, Christmas cards, and gifts I’ve wrapped have brought back many Christmas memories from the past.

One of my favorite Christmas memories as a young girl is the year I was chosen to play the part of Mary in our church Christmas pageant. I can still remember the joy I felt that evening when the choir sang “Silent Night, Holy Night, All is calm, All is bright.”

Whenever I see a nativity scene, I’m in awe of God’s love. Isn’t it wonderful to know that He loves us so much that He sent His only Son to earth as a baby? Jesus, the Savior of the world, was crucified for the redemption of our sins so that we may have eternal life. What better gift could anyone receive?

What is your favorite Christmas memory, and how did it impact your life?

Today is my birthday, and to start off the day I decided to reflect on some of the other birthdays I’ve had over the years. When I was a young girl, there were family parties, with cake, ice cream, cards, and presents. During my teenage years I had pajama parties, skating parties, and dinner parties with some of my friends. When I got married and had children of my own, it was back to family parties again. When our son was born, just 4 days after my 20th birthday, I realized I had received a most special birthday present. Since that time, Richard Jr. and I have celebrated many of our birthdays together.

Thinking back to a few of my birthdays, I am reminded of the birthday surprise I received a few years ago, that was secretly planned by my husband and I daughter–a limo ride to a fancy restaurant. On another occasion, some of the women from our church planned a surprise party in my honor. Then there have been numerous dinners out, bouquets of flowers, and phone calls from loved ones and close friends.

The special memories I have from all of the parties and surprises in the past are not about the good food we ate, or the cards and gifts I received. The memories that warm my heart are about the special times I’ve spent with family and friends. No gift can compare to the pleasure of being with the people I love, and no cake, ice cream, or other goodies, can equal the way my heart fills with love when I’m with those who mean so very much to me. Thank you, family and friends, for all the good times, and the many things you do to make my life complete. I love you all so very much!

Now it’s your turn. What special birthday memories would you like to share?

When my mother passed away recently, I found comfort in the condolences of others, through the flowers, cards, and notes they sent, as well as phone calls and personal contact. Just a hug or a simple, “I’m praying for you,” helped so much during the difficult time. In addition to the comfort I received from family and friends, I was reminded of the verse of scripture in Isaiah 66:13 that says, “As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you.” Through the encouragement of others, I have felt the Lord’s presence and comfort during the days following my mother’s death.

It also gave me comfort to know that my mom is no longer suffering and is at peace with the Lord. Because she was a Christian, I know I will see her again some day.

What are some ways others have encouraged you during the loss of a loved one? How have you offered your condolences to someone during their time of grief?