By Christie Young

The beautiful holiday of Christmas celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ is upon us.  I must admit it took me time this year to adjust to the idea of decorating my home.  It was that human element of “one more chore” added to the list.  I rationalized with myself that since I wasn’t feeling well, and our home is quiet this time of year, if we didn’t put up our decorations it would go unnoticed.  My excuses continued to mount.  One afternoon while I was cooking, I turned on some classical Christmas music; the mere sound of a magnificent choir singing praises to our Lord filled my kitchen and most importantly my soul.  That Christ-filled love and joy that is unlike any feeling on earth embraced me.

I often listen to Christian artist whose songs encourage me daily reminding me of the love Jesus Christ gave for me when He died.  The joy that came to my spirit through song that day inspired me to re-focus on the real reason I decorate my home this time of year, my faith and love for Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.

Love from Jesus was the catalyst for healing my soul during my difficult journey through a mild traumatic brain injury and chronic illness.  God had a plan for my life.  Through the trials and unexpected life changes, my testimony of faith for the healing power of love and forgiveness I experienced from Jesus Christ is beyond measure.

This Christmas season I celebrate the birth of our Savior by singing songs of praise and enjoying the company of those I love who never left my side.  As we sit and admire the sparkling lights and glittering ornaments that surround our living room, we are reminded John 3:16 – For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.