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Written By: Sandi MacCalla, Founder - LifeSkills Academy ~ 12/16/2024

Many believe the most precious and essential things in life are divine gifts from God. As we celebrate Christmas, it's a perfect time to appreciate the gifts from God that we have (joy, love, reflection, peace). They come without a price tag, yet they enrich us in countless ways. Here are cherished ones to ponder as we celebrate a year marked by tumult and surprises.

Life - our very existence and breath we take each moment. Christmas reminds us of the miracle of life itself, with the birth of Jesus being central to the celebration. Each breath we take is a precious gift from God. This season, cherish the moments you have with loved ones and reflect on the beauty of your life.

Scripture Reference: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." – Jeremiah 29:11

Love - the capacity to receive and give love. The true spirit of Christmas is love—the love God freely offers us and the love we share with others. This holiday, let's open our hearts to receive and give love, spreading kindness and compassion.

Scripture Reference: "And above all these, put on love which
binds everything together in perfect harmony." – Colossians 3:14

Nature - the beautiful world around us—mountains, oceans, forests, and skies. In winter splendor, Nature reminds us of God's creation. Whether it's the beauty of snowy landscapes, crisp sunny blue skies, or the simplicity of mountain ranges, these inspire a peaceful awe and gratitude.

Scripture References: “Everything belongs to the LORD your God, not only the earth and everything on it, but also the sky and the highest heavens.” – Deuteronomy 10:14

So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. 28 God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.” - Genesis 1:27-28

The heaven, even the heavens, are the Lord’s; But the earth He has given to the children of men. - Psalm 115:16

Joy - moments of happiness and delight. The joy of the holiday season is palpable. From the twinkling decorations to the sound of carols, Christmas brings a special happiness we can all embrace and share.

Scripture Reference: "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice." – Philippians 4:4

Peace - inner calm and rest. Amid the hustle and bustle, Christmas counterbalances time with peace. The story of Jesus’ birth brings a promise of peace to all. Taking moments of quiet reflection helps us find our inner tranquility.

Scripture Reference: "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." – Philippians 4:7

Faith - trusting and believing in something greater than us. Faith is the foundation of Christmas. Jesus’ birth renews our faith and reminds us of God's presence. This season, take moments to sense and strengthen your belief and trust in God's plan.

Scripture Reference: "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." – Hebrews 11:1

Hope - the catalyst to move forward into the future. Christmas brings hope—for new beginnings and brighter tomorrows. It's a time to look forward and trust in God's guidance.

Scripture Reference: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." – Romans 15:13

Forgiveness - the power to forgive ourselves and others. A core message of Christmas is about forgiveness. As we celebrate Jesus (who brought forgiveness to the world), we can seek to forgive ourselves and others.

Scripture Reference: "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." – Ephesians 4:32

Purpose - our meaning and direction in life. Each of us has a unique purpose designed by God. Christmas is an ideal time to reflect on our purpose and how we’ll fulfill it in the coming year.

Scripture Reference: "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." – Ephesians 2:10

I hope this captures the essence of your Christmas celebrations and the divine gifts we receive freely. At LifeSkills Academy, we have had a remarkable year, with a forecasted 80% increase in readership. We are humbled and deeply grateful to all of you. Our deepest desire is to serve you (our purpose) by bringing information and encouragement for clarity, ease, and everyday success in life. May this Christmas reveal all that has been in your life this year to bless you with friends, family, coworkers, your planet-mates, and the Holy Trinity.

“I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly.”
Jesus - John 10:10

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