Reminiscing the goodness of God's grace over my recent past, I gaze out the spacious picture window at the scene set before me. Snowflakes settle gently outside, nonthreatening in appearance and yet their presence keeps me curled up in my new Christmas fleece. I enjoy the white glory from the warm indoors as a cup of tea rests in my lap, content. The mountains in the not-so-distant distance continually direct my thoughts to upward praises. Where they should be on this holiday celebration. A current undertaking of mine, the recipient of my free time, is the book, "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens. I have never considered reading to be an undertaking, it has always been a pleasure, until it became an activity for which I could not find time. As I read of Pip's personal struggles with the difference of where he finds himself in life and where he would like to be, I am caught up in thoughts of comparison in my own life. I would like to be a better daughter, sister, friend. I have great expectations for my life, which I have yet to meet. As, I assume, many others hope to see personal growth in areas of their own lives, I want to spread a message of hope for this often discouraging undertaking. There is One who has met all expectations, not only of His own, but of a Holy Triune God. Jesus Christ came to this earth, as a baby. He lived a perfect life on this stained and sinful world.

He exceeded all expectations, to bring you joy.

The anticipation has ceased today with the birth of a long awaited King, and yet the anticipation of His return continues. The Christmas story is one of Joy. What expectations do we have that Jesus has not proceeded in fulfillment?  We need not fear the unknown future, or relive a past with our King in power.

Our value is in what God has done for us.

And so I sit in meditative, joyful  anticipation, aware of all that He has done for me.

Merry Christmas.