I love this time of year! Almost everywhere you turn everything looks festive. Lots of lights. Ribbons and bows. Christmas trees. And there is anticipation in the air. Like something good is coming. Something new and fresh!

Even when I’m frazzled by a long list of things that must. get. done…I know that in just a few short weeks – ready or not – we will gather together with the ones we love – and just enjoy. Enjoy each other’s company. Reminisce over favorite or funny memories. Eat too much. Laugh. Cry. Love. Maybe even dare to share some dreams or future plans.

When Mary & Joseph were making their way to Bethlehem they knew something good was coming. Counting the cost they were still anticipating a Savior in the form of a baby who would change everything. The journey wasn’t easy. It wasn’t without danger. But they kept moving forward. Anticipating the good that was sure to come. And trusting that God had a plan.

Perhaps your journey hasn’t been an easy one. Maybe sickness, pain, maybe even the death of someone you love has caused you to dread the time ahead. Because this world is broken there will be difficult times and heartache and pain. But that baby, Jesus, who did change everything, grew up to be the Savior of the world. And He said, “In this world you will have trouble; but, take heart, for I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

If you are having trouble focusing on something good – spend a quiet few minutes and jot down 5 good things that have happened to you this year. Just 5! Once you get started you may be reminded of many more good things that have already happened for which you are thankful. There is something about focusing on the good…that sets us on a path to expect something great! Are you expecting?!