Faith

Faith (46)

SatDec21

The Heartache & Hope of Christmas

My heart hurts today. It hurts for many of you. My friends out there who are struggling with deep pain. The world is going on with the hustle and bustle of Christmas, and you are holding on by a thread. You’re doing your best to smile as you check out of the store. You’re saying the words, “Merry Christmas”, and yet you feel anything but “merry”. You’re hiding the tears, as people mention their families gathering for Christmas. You’re forcing yourself to get up and go, to move forward, when everything in you wants to stop. I see you, Friend. And I love you. More importantly, God sees you. And He loves you.

To my friends who are crawling instead of walking. Crying instead of laughing. You are seen. And you are loved.

To my friends who have lost a loved one, those of you who will sit through Christmas with that empty chair filled with memories staring back at you, you are seen. You are loved.

To my friends who have a family member who is distant, perhaps writing you out of their story, your pain is real. You are seen, and you are loved.

To the family who just lost a wife and mom, we are reeling with you. You are seen, and you are loved.

To the one spending this holiday season in the hospital, wishing to be with your family around the Christmas tree, know that you are seen. And you are loved.

To the family sitting alongside their loved ones in the hospital, wondering if you have enough strength to support your loved one on their health journey, you are seen. And you are loved.

To the couple who lost their baby before he could take his first breath, we mourn with you. You are seen. And you are loved.

To my friends who are silently struggling with addiction, those who will watch the food and drinks pass by them, as the desire to partake grows stronger by the minute, you are seen. You are loved.

To my friends who sit alone this holiday season, remembering the days when your home was full of love and laughter, you too are seen. And you are loved.

Although our world is much different than it was 2000 years ago, when Jesus was born, the pain remains the same. The hopelessness was evident. Sickness darkened the doors of families. Wayward family members impacted the group around the dinner table. Loneliness was present. These are not new hurts. They are hurts that a living God saw, as the perfect world He created became filled with pain. But our God saw that! Just as He sees every one of us. He saw the need for a Savior. He saw the need for the brokenness to be healed. For loneliness to be replaced with joy. He saw the need for families to be restored. For addictions to be broken. He saw the need for healing. He saw the need for eternal life, so we could sit at the table once again with those we lost. He saw…and He sees.

Our loving and faithful God chose to send His Son, Jesus, into a lost and painfilled world. He did that for you. He did that for me. Because He sees us. And He loves us.

My hope and prayer for you this Christmas season is that if you are one of the people who are hurting, allow Him and others to walk this journey with you. Let people minister to you; that’s what our loving God does for us. And if you’re one of the people who are doing well, then please keep your eyes open for those who need you this holiday season. In Matthew 9:37 it says, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore, pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest". May we be one of the laborers He sends to walk alongside the hurting this holiday season.

If you or your family need some extra prayers this Christmas, please let me know. I’d be honored to pray for you.

Scriptures of Hope

Today, I encourage you to choose a verse or two, write them down, place them somewhere in your home where they’ll be visible, and allow God to minister to your heart through His Words.

God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 1 John 3:1

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35

This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. 1 John 3:16

God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. I Corinthians 1:9

Isaiah 43:4: God sees us as precious and honored, and loves us so much that he would exchange nations for our life.

You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. Psalm 139:1

But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. Psalm 86:15

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3

Misty Cramer is an author & speaker who recently released her first book. The Every Day God, 40 Daily Devotions for Walking with God through Everyday Moments, quickly made its way to Amazon's #1 New Release and Best Seller lists in multiple categories. In this book, she authentically shares her own story to remind us all that God has a specific plan, even in the midst of life's messes. She has been married to Todd for 40 years and has five adult sons. While they enjoy their time as "empty nesters" in rural Michigan, they also love visits from their sons, four daughters-in-law, and three granddaughters. Misty sends out a monthly devotion as part of her newsletter, and she'd love to send it along to you. The link to subscribe to the devotion, as well as the link to Misty's book can be found below:

Sign up here to receive a free devotion, 5 Steps for Walking with God through Everyday Moments: https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome

Head to this link if you’d like to purchase the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CH258Y14

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ThuDec19

Hungering & Longing to See Jesus-The Story of Zacchaeus

Do you remember, as a child, being in a large crowd, straining to see something special? And then realizing that all you could see were the backs and behinds of the people in front of you?

That is, until an adult noticed you struggling to see. They lifted you up, placed you on their shoulders, and suddenly you were higher than everyone else. You realized you had the best view in the place!

On my journey through Luke today, I was reading Luke 19, and was considering what the view must have been like for Zacchaeus on that day he decided to climb the tree. You see, the bible tells us that Zacchaeus was “short”. So, when the crowds began to gather to see Jesus, he was seeing the backs and behinds of the people in front of him. However, he may have been short in stature, but he was most certainly not short in creativity and ingenuity. He found a tree. And he climbed it. He suddenly had the best view in the place! How awesome is that! Not only was Zacchaeus able to see Jesus, but Jesus saw Zacchaeus!

As Zacchaeus is up there enjoying the view, perhaps waving at the people below him, Jesus sees him. He not only sees him, but he greets him. And he not only greets him, but Jesus invites himself over to dinner at Zacchaeus’ house! Wow! That climb up into the sycamore tree was so worth it!

Zacchaeus did what hopefully any of us would do, “came down at once and welcomed him gladly”.

Today, I pose this question-how eager are we to see Jesus? Are we hungering Him to the point that we are willing to “climb the sycamore tree”? To do something unusual, so we can see Him more clearly? To go out of our way to hear His voice?

Everywhere we look, it seems there are currently big crowds. Restaurants. The expressway. Stores. It takes some effort on our parts, to find a way to see Jesus through the crowds and chaos. But when we do, when we put in that effort, when we climb that tree--the view is so beautiful. The relationship with Jesus is so sweet. We see Him. He sees us. We are reminded that He longs to sit at our table and share in conversation with us. We are reminded, as Zacchaeus was, that He “came to seek and to save the lost”.

Today's blog is teaching from Luke 19:1-10. Enjoy reading the full story on your own.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, as I navigate this busy season, I don't want to forget You in the midst of it all. I want to hunger for you. I want to chase you. I want to climb to the tallest tree, so I can see and hear you more clearly. Come, Lord Jesus, sit with me. So, I can give you praise and thanks for coming to earth to seek and save someone like me. Amen

Sign up here to receive reminders and links to Marriage Monday and Misty's monthly devotional newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome

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WedOct30

Created for Community

Creating Community-What is the Key Ingredient

We were created by an all-knowing, loving, and powerful God. And in His creating of us, He designed us with the desire for community. To be a part of a family-sometimes a family connected thru a bloodline and other times connected thru a God-line.

Jesus, Himself, had a community. Think of the men and women who did life with Jesus (Matthew, Mary, Mark, Martha, Luke, Susanna, John, Joanna…so many more!) They traveled with Him. Ate with Him. Served with Him. They loved one another. Learned from one another. Supported. Encouraged.

Jesus had created the ultimate, beautiful example of community. He did so by inviting them into His life, teaching them and showing them how to love one another.

A.J. Swoboda, in his book Subversive Sabbath (pg. 69) says this, “True community is not born of our efforts in creating a sense of community-it is the natural outcome from the act of loving other people.”

When I read this sentence, I immediately highlighted it. It spoke to me. I thought, in a world where we, as churches, neighborhoods, and schools, are attempting to “do” and “create” activities to create community, I wonder if we have lost the main ingredient. An ingredient Jesus loved and taught daily. The act of loving others.

John 13:34-35 A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

1 John 4:7-8 Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.

Matthew 22:36-40: A person asks Jesus, "Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?" Jesus replies, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and first commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself".

I’m not saying fun programs and group gatherings are to be totally set aside. I love a good program as much as the next person. In fact, I am passionate about developing programs. But I am more compassionate about relationships. And that is where we must place our focus.

If we create programs to develop community, but we fail to implement the act of loving others, then we have failed. We will simply be a church, neighborhood, or school who happened to put on “that one cool event”.

But, when we do those events as an act of love for one another…watch out! When we sit down and have real life conversations with those around us. When we listen intently to the hurts of our neighbors. When we cry with each other. When we get into the mire, mud, and mundane with one another. When we choose to see the unseen. When we choose to hear the unspoken words. That, my friend, is when community is built. That’s when Church happens. That’s when communities will be changed. That’s when neighborhoods will be transformed. That’s when Jesus shows up in big ways.

Let’s go, Friends. How will you choose to love your neighbor today? May the way you choose to love them begin to build a Christ-like community in your Church and neighborhood.

Misty Cramer is an author, speaker, mentor, and pastor. As a teen mom, she found out what it was like to live in shame. But she also found out what it was like to be given the opportunity for a fresh start because of Jesus. She uses her personal experience and her experience as a professional mentor and speaker to help people take steps toward a fresh start and creating a new legacy for themselves and their families. And, she absolutely loves what she does!

Sign up here to receive Misty's popular marriage blog, "Marriage Monday" and Misty's monthly devotional newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome

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WedAug14

Scriptures to Help Walk through Today's Transitions

Walking through Today's Transitions

Do seasonal transitions come easy for you? They certainly don’t for me. As I wandered around my house this week, picking up little toys and hair ties, and swooshing balloons across the floor, my heart ached. They were reminders that Summer was coming to a close and Fall was soon to begin.

Our family had the most marvelous of summers. We started right out with two of our sons getting married. It was absolutely wonderful to experience those unions. Weddings also meant there were some really great family gatherings, which I love and treasure. We then we headed into our 9^th Annual July 4^th Family Extravaganza. That meant even more family time. We had trips up north to see family. We had our South Carolina family come to Michigan for several weeks. The opportunities for fun, conversation, and laughter seemed endless this summer.

And yet, this week, the time arrived for that phase of life to come to a close. Did I mention how much I dislike that?

The family activities wrapped up, as the last of our family, including two of our granddaughters, our daughter-in-law and our son, loaded up and pulled out of the driveway on Monday. And this grandma shed some tears. Transitions are hard, especially when they include good-byes.

Today there were no morning conversations with my son and daughter-in-law.

There was no pitter patter of our granddaughters little feet making their way down the stairs. There were no snuggles on the couch before the day was to begin.

There would be no more setting up for movie nights. Or making popcorn. Or choosing a candy to add to that popcorn. (Does anyone else add M & M’s or Skittles to their popcorn?)

The pond will remain still, without the endless swimming and paddleboard rides.

The bonfire pit won’t be as active.

The jars for catching fireflies will remain empty.

The “grandma tears” came again at 2:00 pm when I was picking up some random item they left lying on the living room. And even now, as I write this. The sadness does fade. It takes a bit, but that’s ok. Giving myself time to sit in the “loss” of summer, of noise, of family is healthy for me. And it takes me through the memories of all the wonderful things that happened this summer.

What transition are you preparing for today? Do you have a little one heading to kindergarten? Are you dropping a child off at college? Maybe you’ve had a summer break from work and you’re preparing to head back this fall. Possibly, you’ve had a different type of loss; the loss of a marriage; the physical loss of a loved one; the loss of a job.

All of those changes mandate a transition. Some are easier than others. All can be a challenge and bring an array of emotions. I want to remind you today that we serve a God who is walking with you during every transition. Deuteronomy 31:8 says, “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

The changes in your life and the transitions you are walking through at this very moment are no surprise to God. He is not caught off guard by your circumstances. He is not puzzled by your pain. He is not silenced by your sadness.

He is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18), prepared to give rest to the weary (Matthew 11:28), and provide strength (Isaiah 41:10) for each one of us.

I pray that whatever transition you are walking through right now, that you would rest in the arms of the One who has held your past and holds your future. And as for my transition, I am going to praise Him for a splendid summer, and lean into whatever fabulous fall plans He has for me. (Yes, I may shed a few more tears and I definitely will be counting down until I get to see my family again.)

Scripture and Prayers for You Today

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. John 16:22

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans15:13

The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them. Psalm 145:18-19

Heavenly Father, I am going through some challenging transitions right now. It’s hard for me to let go of the past and embrace the future. I ask that you would walk before me, light the path for me, and prepare me in whatever ways needed for the road that is ahead. I love you Lord, and thank you for your goodness and grace. Amen

Misty Cramer is an author & speaker who recently released her first book. The Every Day God, 40 Daily Devotions for Walking with God through Everyday Moments, quickly made its way to Amazon's #1 New Release and Best Seller lists in multiple categories. In this book, she authentically shares her own story to remind us all that God has a specific plan, even in the midst of life's messes. She has been married to Todd for 39 years and has five adult sons. While they enjoy their time as "empty nesters" in rural Michigan, they also love visits from their sons, two daughters-in-law, and three granddaughters. Misty sends out a monthly devotion as part of her newsletter, and she'd love to send it along to you. The link to subscribe to the devotion, as well as the link to Misty's book can be found below:

Sign up here to receive reminders and links to Marriage Monday and Misty's monthly devotional newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome

Head to this link if you’d like to purchase the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CH258Y14

Follow Misty on Facebook to receive daily encouragement: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063109547064

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FriMar29

Good Friday Darkness & the Light of Easter, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Jesus and the Cross, Empty Tomb

From Good Friday's Darkness to the Light of Easter

As the sun shines brightly in my window today, my mind takes me back to the first Good Friday. I sit reading the crucifixion story in my Bible, and I can’t help but feel anger and gratitude simultaneously. Although neither of those words quite touch the extreme emotions felt, they mix together, penetrating my soul in an unexplainable manner.

Anger, even rage, darkens my mind, as I read of the flogging of my Jesus. The mockery of him, as they clothed him with the scarlet robe. As they placed a staff in his hand, and pressed the crown of thorns deeply into his head. As they hurled insults at him…at my Jesus. The pain he felt as they took the staff and beat him over the head with it; physical pain that I can’t begin to imagine. And yet, for the Jesus I have come to know, that paled in comparison to his internal pain. His heart pain...as they mocked him, spit on him, sneered as he walked by, carrying the very cross each of them, each of us, deserved to carry. My Jesus. Enduring this pain. For each of them. For each of us. For me.

The world went dark. For three hours. That first Good Friday. Silence. As my Jesus hung on the cross. As my Jesus cried out and died the death that I deserved.

So, yes, anger. Rage. It’s ok that I feel those things when I consider that first Good Friday. Yet, I have a benefit that those who loved him, those who sat at the foot of that cross, couldn’t yet see. I have the benefit of knowing that Sunday was coming. And it was just around the corner. I have the benefit of sitting in my rage, while also sitting in my gratitude. I have the benefit of sitting in the darkness, knowing the hope has already been revealed. I have the benefit of being consumed by the pain of the death, only for a moment, because I know the end of the story. That death was short-lived. That death was defeated that day. That the empty tomb found three days later was the key to victory. That death was beaten! That my Jesus overcame the darkest of days with the most victorious of days. From cross to grave…He has won!

Isn’t it a wonderful gift to know the end of the story? To know that as we acknowledge and sit in remembrance of the darkest day, that we are able to do so with gratitude, hope, peace, and even celebration of what was to come after that first Good Friday?

I challenge you this Easter weekend to sit in the darkness for a bit. Read the scriptures of that first Good Friday (Matthew 27, Mark 15, Luke 23, John 19). And then praise God for the end of the story. For the victory. For death being defeated.

Walk in the Truth this Easter Weekend. Because if you are a follower of Jesus, this weekend should be one of celebration! A reminder that my Jesus, your Jesus, overcame. He won! And because of that you and I are also victorious. We win…abundant life here on earth and eternal life is our future.

Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, to pay the penalty of death that I deserved. As I wrap my head and heart around that today, I also praise you for the victory that came three days later. Thank you for the cross. And thank you for the empty grave. Because you beat death, I may live in relationship with you today and forever more. I love you, Lord. Amen.

©Misty Cramer 2024

Misty Cramer is a best-selling author & national speaker who recently released her first book. The Every Day God, 40 Daily Devotions for Walking with God through Everyday Moments. The book quickly made its way to Amazon's #1 New Release and Best Seller lists in multiple categories, and is a Selah Awards Finalist. In this book, she authentically shares her own story to remind us all that God has a specific plan, even in the midst of life's messes. She has been married to Todd for 39 years and has five adult sons. While they enjoy their time as "empty nesters" in rural Michigan, they also love visits from their sons, two daughters-in-law, and three granddaughters. Misty sends out a monthly devotion as part of her newsletter, and she'd love to send it along to you. The link to subscribe to the devotion, as well as the link to Misty's book can be found below:

Sign up here to receive reminders and links to Marriage Monday and Misty's monthly devotional newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome

Head to this link if you’d like to purchase the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CH258Y14

Follow Misty on Facebook to receive daily encouragement: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063109547064

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WedJan17

Shelter from the Storm, Protected by the Lord, The Lord Provides Shelter

Shelter from the Storm

We live on the Saginaw Bay, where our shore is lined with oak trees. The winds are often crazy coming off the water. It doesn't take long into the fall season for the wind to blow the leaves off the trees, leaving them bare for the long winter months ahead.

Yet, every year this young oak (pictured) holds it's leaves throughout the long winter. They won't drop until spring when the new leaves start popping out. It's the only tree in the yard with it's leaves still in tact. In fact, there is another tree only twenty feet from this one; you can see it to the right. I imagine you can guess why this tree still has it's leaves securely attached. If you guessed that it is protected, you are correct. If I were to take a picture of the tree from the other direction, you would see just how close it is to our house.

I can't help but connect this tree to our lives. Are you staying close, connected, and protected by our Heavenly Father? When we look around at people, we can often tell those who are leaning into the Father. Those soaking in the nourishment the Savior provides. Those seeking shelter under His wings.

As Christians, we still have winds blow into our lives. We still have the rain pelt against us. We still have storm clouds surround us. And yet, the difference is, we have the ability to stay close, connected, and protected by the Father. We can immerse ourselves in His Word, soaking in all that He desires to pour into us. We can stay connected to Him through prayer and through other Christians who support us. We can seek His protection and shelter, allowing Him to give us the strength we need during the winds of the world.

I pray today you choose to be like this young oak that finds it's protection from the house. Choose to not lose your leaves in the wind, snow, and blizzards that are most certainly going to attempt to strip you. Stand strong and firm in the storm, with the confidence and peace that you are standing in the strength of the Lord. He's got you! Lean in, Friends. Soak in His Word. Lean into your prayer times. Receive strength from other Christians. And stand firm in the shadow of the Lord's protection. I pray the scriptures below soak into your heart and give you strength today.

You are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with shouts of deliverance. Psalm 32:7

But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. 2 Thessalonians 3:3

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Misty Cramer is an author & speaker who recently released her first book. The Every Day God, 40 Daily Devotions for Walking with God through Everyday Moments, quickly made its way to Amazon's #1 New Release and Best Seller lists in multiple categories. In this book, she authentically shares everyday moments that we all experience and connects them to encouraging life lessons. Each day also includes scripture and a prayer. She has been married to Todd for 39 years and has five adult sons. While they enjoy their time as "empty nesters" in rural Michigan, they also love visits from their sons, two daughters-in-law, and two granddaughters. Misty sends out a monthly devotion as part of her newsletter, and she'd love to send it along to you. The link to subscribe to the devotion, as well as the link to Misty's book can be found below:

Head to this link if you’d like to purchase the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CH258Y14

Follow Misty on Facebook to receive daily encouragement: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063109547064

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SatDec02

Countdown to Christmas: Luke 3, The Great Anticipation, Waiting Expectantly, Jesus is Coming

Countdown to Christmas: Waiting Expectantly

Luke 3-Day 3: The excitement would build as our younger sons would count down the days until the older brothers were to return home from college for Christmas Break. They would ask each day how many days were left until their arrival. They would plan games and food that would be brought out upon their entrance. They would have movies picked out that would make for good family nights. And they would share the excitement with grandparents and friends, creating an atmosphere of great anticipation.

As I read Luke 3 today, I couldn’t help but pick up on the excitement and anticipation that was building surrounding the arrival of Jesus. The chapter is filled with teaching from John, and in this teaching, he shares the great news of the One who would come after him. He lets the expectant people know that there is someone who is coming who is far greater than he. He shares, “But one who is more powerful than I will come…”. He is making sure the people understand that he, John, is not the Messiah…while building the anticipation for the One who will soon arrive.

How is your excitement level today? I’m not asking if your excited about your tree or your shopping or even your family. I’m asking what your excitement level is for the One who we celebrate. The One who is far greater than us. The One who deserves all glory, honor, and praise.

Jesus later will go on to instruct the people, including us, to go and make disciples of all nations. He is asking us to take our excitement to another level and share it with others. He is asking us to take the love He has for each of us, and show it to others.

Today, on Day 3 of our Christmas Countdown, would you excitedly share the love of Jesus with someone? Just as my boys were beaming with excitement over the arrival of their older brothers, we should also be beaming with excitement over the fact that we have news to share…news the world needs to hear. News of the upcoming celebration of the birth of Jesus, our reason for hope. Will you share this news with someone today?

You can find Day 1 & 2/Luke 1 & 2 of our Christmas Countdown on this blog too. And connect on Facebook or here each day leading up to Christmas for a new message. Thanks for joining in on the Christmas Countdown. Feel free to leave a thumbs up or comment if you're joining me on the Countdown. Enjoy your day, Friends! May you experience the love of the Son today and always.

Misty Cramer is an author & speaker who recently released her first book. The Every Day God, 40 Daily Devotions for Walking with God through Everyday Moments, quickly made its way to Amazon's #1 New Release and Best Seller lists in multiple categories. In this book, she authentically shares her own story to remind us all that God has a specific plan, even in the midst of life's messes. She has been married to Todd for 39 years and has five adult sons. While they enjoy their time as "empty nesters" in rural Michigan, they also love visits from their sons, two daughters-in-law, and two granddaughters. Misty sends out a monthly devotion as part of her newsletter, and she'd love to send it along to you. The link to subscribe to the devotion, as well as the link to Misty's book can be found below:

Head to this link if you’d like to purchase the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CH258Y14

Follow Misty on Facebook to receive daily encouragement: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063109547064

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SatDec02

Countdown to Christmas: Luke 2, A Mother's Heart, Mary treasuring in her Heart,

Countdown to Christmas: A Mother's Heart

The last of the visitors left the hospital room. Todd (my hubby) and I cherished a few more minutes of sitting with our newborn baby, soaking in the miracle of birth. We admired his tiny fingers and toes as we unwrapped the blanket a bit. The gift that laid before us wiggled, and made “baby noses” that once again brought tears to our eyes. After one more kiss on the baby’s head, Todd gently kissed me. Brushing the hair from my face, he whispered, “great job, Babe. I love you and I will see you in the morning.” He quietly made his way out of the room, glancing back at me one more time; love streaming from his eyes.

The hospital no longer rang with activity echoing through the hallways. Only the hushed voices of nurses could be heard from across the hall. One look at the clock on the wall told me I should be exhausted. It had been a long day. My body had just birthed another human; that thought still boggled my mind. And yet, the sleep that was calling me would need to be patient. I was holding my baby.

I stared at him. I unwrapped him again, and marveled at this gift, this tiny human that had been placed under my care. Swaddling him once again in the blanket that wrapped tightly around his body, I began to speak to him. And to God, I suppose. After all, it was just the three of us in the room now. I spoke hopes and dreams over this little man. I spoke prayers over this little body. I spoke truth over him, assuring him that he would always be loved…yes, by me. By his family. But most importantly by his Creator. His Savior. He would always be loved. Forever loved.

Our time together, just my baby and I, left me pondering. Wondering what plans God had for this little guy. Our time together, just my baby and I, left me treasuring. Savoring this moment. Storing up every second, tucking it tightly into a spot in my heart where it would remain forever. This moment would etch its way into my heart, marking me in a way that I didn’t fully understand.

That was the scenario for the births of each of my five sons. Those moments during the late-night hours in the hospital truly were a gift to me. When I allow my mind to go back to that place, I feel only peace. It’s as if the arms of God had my baby and I enveloped in His love. It was tangible. As a mom, it will remain one of the highlights of motherhood. It’s sort of strange in a way; because it’s a time that my little men will never remember. A time they will never remember, but a time I will always treasure.

Our reading today for our Christmas Countdown is Luke 2. And in it I found myself relating to Mary. Soon after she had given birth to Jesus, the shepherds made their way to the stable. They were amazed and began to spread the word concerning this birth. And then verse 19 says, “But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” The world was hearing about and celebrating the birth of her Son, and she was quietly treasuring, pondering. She most certainly had the heart of a mom; I believe her thoughts went far deeper, far further than the thoughts of the others in the stable.

Years later, as Jesus had grown into a twelve-year-old boy, Mary and Joseph had “lost” him. When he was later found in the temple courts, his parents questioned his disappearance. Jesus said, “Why were you searching for me? Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” (vs 49) Following this discussion, Mary once again finds herself pondering. Scripture tells us in verse 51, “But his mother treasured all these things in her heart.” Once again, I see the heart of a mom. Her thoughts went deep. Her thoughts went far. She was treasuring these things in her heart, wondering about his future. What did life hold for him? Perhaps she found herself reflecting back to the moments in the stable. A time when she was able to protect and nurture her son in a way she no longer could do.

I am not sure my exact point with today’s scripture. I only know what God placed on my heart within Luke Chapter 2. He took me back to a place, decades ago, where I had moments in a quiet hospital room with each of my five sons. A place I can never physically go again, but a place that still brings tears to my eyes when I visit it in my minds-eye. A place where God filled my heart with a love for another person in a way that can never be explained. A place where God was so present that I could feel Him pour Himself upon my life and the life of the little man I held in my arms. A place where love and hopes and dreams and prayers seeped out of my pours, landing on the heart of a baby who would never remember this moment, but who would one day catch a glimpse of all that was poured over him in that dimly lit, quiet, hospital room. A place where the three of us experienced a moment in history that would serve as a foundation for the days and years ahead.

My prayer for you today is that you feel the presence of the Lord. I pray you take time to treasure and ponder, as Mary did, about the Son. The Son, who was born in Bethlehem all those years ago. The Son who was born with a love for you that can serve as your foundation in the days and years ahead.

You can find Day 1/Luke 1 of our Christmas Countdown on this blog too. And connect on Facebook or here each day leading up to Christmas for a new message. Thanks for joining in on the Christmas Countdown. Feel free to leave a thumbs up or comment if you're joining me on the Countdown. Enjoy your day, Friends! May you experience the love of the Son today and always.

Misty Cramer is an author & speaker who recently released her first book. The Every Day God, 40 Daily Devotions for Walking with God through Everyday Moments, quickly made its way to Amazon's #1 New Release and Best Seller lists in multiple categories. In this book, she authentically shares her own story to remind us all that God has a specific plan, even in the midst of life's messes. She has been married to Todd for 39 years and has five adult sons. While they enjoy their time as "empty nesters" in rural Michigan, they also love visits from their sons, two daughters-in-law, and two granddaughters. Misty sends out a monthly devotion as part of her newsletter, and she'd love to send it along to you. The link to subscribe to the devotion, as well as the link to Misty's book can be found below:

Head to this link if you’d like to purchase the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CH258Y14

Follow Misty on Facebook to receive daily encouragement: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063109547064

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FriDec01

Countdown to Christmas: Luke 1, Zechariah's Response, Mary's Response,

Countdown to Christmas: That One Gift

Day 1: Luke 1

I want you to picture yourself receiving very important GREAT news. I mean news so GREAT that you can’t even believe it’s coming out of the person’s mouth. You are amazed! Dumbfounded! Ecstatic!

And then you respond with, “How can I be sure of this?”

This is what Zechariah said to the angel who delivered the GREAT news to him. News that he was going to be a father after all these years! I think he was amazed. Dumbfounded. And even ecstatic. But he also was like…seriously? Do you know how old I am?

It actually seems like a pretty legit question to me. However, his response wasn’t taken very well. He found himself unable to speak until the baby arrived.

Then we have Mary. She also gets a visit by an angel. The same angel, in fact. The angel tells her she will have a baby. Wow! Crazy news, especially since she is a virgin. Miraculous news. I’m sure she too was amazed. Dumbfounded. And a whole lot more. And she said, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” Again, I’d say a pretty legit question.

The angel goes on to explain more details to Mary, and then Mary sings praises to the Lord.

If we look at the two questions, they really aren’t very far off from one another, are they? And yet unlike Mary, the angel’s response to Zechariah was that he was made mute. This has me considering the heart of the those who were questioning the angel. If the words are similar, but one of them was considered offensive, I’m thinking there was some “tone” in Zechariah’s response that wasn’t quite right.

This causes me to consider how often my heart, my tone, is not properly lined up with God. I may respond to something someone said or did with a reaction that is offensive. Ungrateful. Unpraiseworthy.

It’s often not our words that are the problem. Perhaps it is our tone. And our tone reflects the condition of our heart. Something we might think we can hide, and yet, who can see our heart? The Lord. He always sees the heart.

As we go about our day, let us consider the condition of our hearts when we respond to the words and actions of others. Will we choose to respond in the tone of Zechariah? Or will we choose to respond in the tone of Mary? I choose Mary. How about you?

This is Day 1 of the Countdown to Christmas Luke Challenge. Join me and others as we read one chapter each day from the book of Luke. Then return here each day for a breakdown of one piece of the chapter. The entire book of Luke is filled with wonderful news, so it is a challenge to choose only one thing per day to touch on, but that’s what I will do. And I’d love to hear what part of the chapter impacted you most. Share in the comments, so we can all learn from one another. Did you read Chapter 1 of Luke yet today? There’s still time! Have a wonderful day, Friends!

Misty Cramer is an author & speaker who recently released her first book. The Every Day God, 40 Daily Devotions for Walking with God through Everyday Moments, quickly made its way to Amazon's #1 New Release and Best Seller lists in multiple categories. In this book, she authentically shares her own story to remind us all that God has a specific plan, even in the midst of life's messes. She has been married to Todd for 39 years and has five adult sons. While they enjoy their time as "empty nesters" in rural Michigan, they also love visits from their sons, two daughters-in-law, and two granddaughters. Misty sends out a monthly devotion as part of her newsletter, and she'd love to send it along to you. The link to subscribe to the devotion, as well as the link to Misty's book can be found below:

Head to this link if you’d like to purchase the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CH258Y14

Follow Misty on Facebook to receive daily encouragement: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063109547064

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ThuNov30

Countdown to Christmas: That One Gift

Countdown to Christmas: That One Gift

One gift. Oh, I waited all week for that one gift. On Christmas Eve, it was our family tradition to each open one gift from under the Christmas tree. During the day one could find me searching under the tree for any gifts that had my name on them. However, being the “rule-follower” I was, I would not disobey the “do not touch” any gifts rule. This made it difficult for me to see if my name was on any of the packages that were buried underneath others. So, I made this concession: if my siblings happened to disobey the “rule” (which I could certainly count on them doing), I would not tattle on them. I’d like to say it was the “Christmas Spirit” that kept me from tattling, but it was actually because I could use their disobedience to my advantage. They move the gifts; I sit behind them and see if I can find my name on any of the underlying gifts. The plan worked quite splendidly. After all, we were all eager to choose the one gift for the night. Our level of excitement exposed our childhood dreams…that one gift was surely going to be something special.

Tonight, we find ourselves just about ready to head into the month of December, where we will begin the 24-day Countdown to Christmas. I don’t know about you, but I get excited about it. I look forward to the month full of all the holiday traditions. I even have some sleepless nights because I am too excited. Yes, that’s a true statement…my husband smiles and nods his head…that’s my girl. It’s just part of who I am; I absolutely love Christmas.

My reasons for this love are vast. Some of them are family-centered. Others tradition-centered. And others Jesus-centered. Most of them are a combination of all three of those areas.

Many years ago, in the Book of Micah, it was written, “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from old, from ancient times.”

That scripture is one of many in the Old Testament that prophetically speaks of the coming of the birth of Jesus. The people waited. They waited for that one gift. They would look for signs. They would listen to the religious teachers. They would anticipate this magnificent gift that would one day come from Bethlehem.

As we countdown to Christmas this year, I will be taking the opportunity to share a story and scripture each day for the next 24 days. They will focus on the much anticipated, eagerly awaited birth of Jesus. I'd love for you to join me on this Countdown to Christmas! Stop by this blog or connect on my social media, and we will do this together. Because the one gift, that one gift given on Christmas Day, was surely something special. It's definitely something we want to get excited about! Let's create an atmosphere of awe in our hearts and our homes, as we countdown to Christmas together.

Misty Cramer is an author & speaker who recently released her first book. The Every Day God, 40 Daily Devotions for Walking with God through Everyday Moments, quickly made its way to Amazon's #1 New Release and Best Seller lists in multiple categories. In this book, she authentically shares her own story to remind us all that God has a specific plan, even in the midst of life's messes. She has been married to Todd for 39 years and has five adult sons. While they enjoy their time as "empty nesters" in rural Michigan, they also love visits from their sons, two daughters-in-law, and two granddaughters. Misty sends out a monthly devotion as part of her newsletter, and she'd love to send it along to you. The link to subscribe to the devotion, as well as the link to Misty's book can be found below:

Head to this link if you’d like to purchase the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CH258Y14

Follow Misty on Facebook to receive daily encouragement: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063109547064

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