Update #60

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given...and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

Union Square Christmas Tree

Birthdays in my family have always been special. That day, that special day of our birth, we didn’t have to do chores, we chose what the family ate for dinner (usually all our most loved – no matter how weird the combo), our favorite cake was made from scratch, and presents were showered on us. We were celebrated, cherished, and the day centered around us. I always felt special.

Jesus’ birthday is being observed next week. December 25th is the day the world has chosen to celebrate his birth. As I thought about this fact I found it ironic that He, the giver of life, he who has given more than any of us ever will, tolerates having others get together in feasting and frivolity and give each other gifts vs. giving him the presents and honor due him.

In reality, if you think about it, every day is about God, everyday celebrates God, everyday is a devotional to God…but Christmas is observed as his birthday, his one, special day – supposedly solely devoted to him.

Most of us, including myself, loose this singular focal point – instead we focus on: Who we need to send cards to, buy gifts for, bake cookies/pies/pastries for, decorate our house in reflection of the season, parties we need to attend, people we need to impress, festive attire and accessories we need to purchase...

How are you celebrating Jesus’ birthday? Are you celebrating his birthday? Let me challenge you to spend sometime alone with him on Christmas, celebrating him, worshiping him, honoring him for what he has done for you, given you, doing for you, and will do for you - before you loose the day in family activities, presents, feasting and merriment.

This isn’t just a challenge for you, but for me as well – how do I fit in a full-on worship service before my mom’s famous Christmas morning breakfast….

Updates:
Living – at my relative’s house until God puts me in different accommodation.
Work – We are heavy into recruiting for the next training season…are you interested in doing business as mission abroad? It will definitely impact your life, may even change it.
Holidays – heading towards Seattle the 22nd, spending Christmas with my family on the 24th and 25th, seeing my hair lady on the 27th (yeah!), and having an open house/housewarming party on the 28th at Jill Olney’s – all are welcome!

Requests:
Housing – I am with my Aunt, Uncle, and cousin for the time being but, when the new rēp headquarters are determined, I need a place close to the office.
Holidays - Please pray for safe travel and good time with family and friends.
Work – Remote training, LEMON Leadership bookings, planning for 2008, consultant training weekend planning, financials catch up, odd and ends administratively…please pray for consistency in excellence…the end of the year has found me tired!
Relationships - deepening of present ones, start of new ones and that God will be present.
Husband – I don’t know who he is, or where he is, but I am sure he would appreciate prayer!
Financing - I need to raise my income. If you are interested in contributing, please see ‘Contribute’ at http://www.repurposing.biz/ on the left of the page, or visit http://www.denaandrews.blogspot.com/ and read the footer for additional info.

Dena

P.S. Check out rēp’s upcoming events page: www.repurposing.biz/events
P.P.S. Check out rēp’s Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2480290241