I'm notorious for being, shall we say--wordy--but I'm leaving you this year with only 10.
Before I go, here are a few family photos. As much as I love receiving Christmas cards, newsy letters are better yet. And photos with the beloved faces of far-off friends are best of all.
If you've been with me in this space the past few weeks, you already know my favorite Christmas carol-- I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day--as well as the tragic yet beautiful true tale of its creation.
But if I had to choose a runner-up?
No contest. That glorious song of old.
The one about circling years and clearing skies and a world lying so still, so solemn you can hear music hovering over the silence.
The one that recognizes what we've been through this year. You, me. All of us.
And ye, beneath life's crushing load,
whose forms are bending low,
who toil along the climbing way
with painful steps and slow,
look now! for glad and golden hours
come swiftly on the wing.
O rest beside the weary road,
and hear the angels sing!
As this year ends and the next begins, promise me one thing, friends?
Will you take just ten words to heart, and make the time to do it?
This:
Rest beside the weary road, and hear the angels sing.
I'll be singing right alongside you.
So much love,
Maggie
(Elaine S of Oakdale, MN, is the winner of our December giveaway: a copy of bestselling author Janet McHenry's new 365 day devotional, Looking Up! Finding Joy as You Pray and Read Through the Bible. Fun fact? Elaine is perhaps our most-senior subscriber. At the youthful age of 99, she's always seeking to grow. Congratulations, Elaine!)