Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Merry Christmas From Our Family to Yours

Christmas, one of my favorite times of the year. The lights, the sounds, the colors, sitting around a fireplace on a cold winters night (Really cold in Memphis). It seems however, that to many of us Christmas takes on a whole new meaning in times like these. It gets our focus off of ourselves and causes us to be greatful and thankful for the little things in life. Like a roof over our head, food on the table, being able to pay the mortgage on time. In good times these things are often taken for granted, but I am determined that this year I am going to turn my attention on the things that really matter. My relationship with Christ, my marraige, and my children. When I think about Christmas I cannot help but think about John 3:16 - For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son that whosoever believes in Him would not perish, but have everlasting life. The word that stands out to me most in that very familiar passage is the word Gave. I think that this describes one of the most essential attributes of God that most of all He is a giver, even to the point that He would give His precious Son for a people (us) who were undeserving of the gift. With that said I want to challenge you this Christmas to focus not so much on getting, but on giving to those a little less fortunate than you, or maybe just lend a hand to someone who can use some help. May you and yours be richly blessed this Christmas season.

Merry Christmas,

The Claunch's

1 comment:

Unknown said...

An awesome website and an awesome Christmas message.

Jake, as we too celebrate the true reason and spirit of Christmas, we extend our hearts which are filled with His extravagant love, to you, Ashley and the little ones. May your hearts continue to be filled with expectancy: anticipating the awesome - impossible-for-man-to-accomplish breakthroughs that await you and your ministry there in Memphis.

Donna and I will be in Chattanooga from 12/29 - 1/3. Tehre is great potential for me to make a brief business trip to Brentwood, TN during that time. What a blessing it would be if we are able to make a detour and drop in on you guys. As the Lord directs!!

WE LOVE YOU!