The Week Before Christmas

On Sunday, I gave away my shoes at church . . .

Soles for Souls is an organization that donates gently worn shoes to individuals who do not own shoes. We partnered with this organization and Pete challenged us to donate the very shoes we had on our feet that day. By Sunday evening, 1,000 pairs had been donated!

It was a humbling reminder that even after the flood (I was able to save plenty of shoes) I have already replaced my "boot collection" and own FAR too many shoes. There are people who do not own 1 pair of shoes. Think about that for a moment. I gave away a full trash bag and I wish I could see the lady who receives my knee-high, tan suede boots! 

:)

Monday began one of the longest and toughest weeks of my year.

The week before Christmas.

Two weeks of work to be done in one and 3 nights of Christmas Eve rehearsal/services.

My 2 page checklist:

I’ve joked that I’m going to frame this to remind myself that I made it!

On Tuesday, I had an appointment with a new neurologist. I get really nervous and insecure about doctor’s appointments. I’ve had many doctors blow me off and have run into so many dead ends that I fret when I have to go explain myself. I also had to leave our staff potluck and secret gift exchange to go to my appointment! I cherish that family time so it was hard to step away.

On my way to the appointment I was reminded of my life verses Philippians 4:6-7: 

⁶Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. ⁷And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 

I prayed this prayer:

 "Lord, I won't be anxious about this doctor's appointment. I thank you for giving me the opportunity to see this doctor. I pray your peace and comfort would fill my heart and people would see You in me today."

I made sure I said "Merry Christmas" to every nurse and person who helped me get around the hospital. I asked them how they were doing. I kept a smile on my face as I walked the halls.

So in the midst of a week where I feel overwhelmed and have already lost my cool many times, I had the opportunity to be a light. It reminded me what Christmas is all about. Jesus was born to die to save:

*Jackie, my nurse.

*Dr. Klienfield

*The lady who drew my blood.

*The sweet women at the help desks who showed me where to go! 

He was born to die to save me and you.

Merry Christmas! Thank you for reading my blog in 2010. I'm excited to see what plots develop in my musical in 2011!  

God bless.