Blessing in A Box: JOY! JOY! JOY!

Families and children in Glory Reborn’s program were delighted to celebrate Christmas and remember the true meaning of the season: JESUS! And what is Christmas without a reenactment of the Christmas story by our very own participants? We had "wise women," sheep, a donkey, a rooster, Mary, Joseph, Jesus, angels, and the star of the show—the star!

Helping the once-babies of Glory Reborn giggle and smile as they got into "costumes" for their roles in the greatest story ever told was so precious to me. Seeing them participate in Jesus' story, watching them become the story of hope—this is the heart of Glory Reborn and the heart of Christmas. Jesus, coming to us, inviting us into His story—His life for our life, our sadness for His joy. And joy certainly filled the room! From singing angels to smiling Mary and Joseph, Jesus was born. As we ended the story with an invitation to invite Jesus to be born in our hearts, the presence of the Lord was ever so tangible. Hearts were full, and smiles reflected the love and hope that only Jesus can bring.

The day continued with ornament-making, nativity coloring, singing, dancing, Bible verse memorization, and the opening of incredible blessing boxes filled with love and joy—thanks to the generous support of Citichurch! One of my favorite moments was watching a sweet little boy jump up and down, smile from ear to ear, and shout with excitement as he pulled from his box his most precious treasure: a light blue towel. He had his very own, clean, new towel. The toys in the box aside, it was this simple towel that he treasured. We have oh so much to be grateful for.

As I walked around the room, smiles, laughter, and joy everywhere my eyes could reach, I thought this is what Heaven must have been like when Jesus was born: the rejoicing of angels, and on earth, the shouts of joy from humble shepherds. Jesus has come to each of us!

May Jesus, the giver of life and joy, be born anew in your heart and life this Christmas.

This Christmas, we thank God for each of you who journeyed alongside us in serving families and nurturing little lives. May the light and joy of Jesus fill your heart and families this Christmas. Merry Christmas and a grace-filled New Year!

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