Tuesday, December 19, 2023

Recent trip

 Last week my wife and I flew to Austin, Texas to spend time with our son and his youngest son. His other two children are on the east coast and would not be there at the time of our visit. We typically only see him a couple of times a year so we were eager for the visit. I was a little apprehensive because the past two years we've had flight issues due to weather causing delays and cancellations. I'm happy to that was not the case this year. We had zero travel issues and very good flights.

Family is always important, but especially so during holidays. For most of us, holidays such as Christmas are times filled with joy and excitement. That is not always the case for others, especially if they have lost loved ones since the last holiday. For those individuals, the holiday season can be a time of painful memories, and the sense of separation from those loved ones increases. It's very important that we do not forget those individuals and to make sure we give them extra attention during the holiday season.

The holiday season can also be a difficult time for families that are in conflict with one another. Family gatherings can be stressful with everyone walking on eggshells. Life is too short for such conflicts to remain. Jesus taught us to forgive, and this is especially true when there are family issues. As a pastor and an auctioneer I have seen families fight over the most minor things with neither side willing to give. That's a hard way to live. Especially Christians should be quick to forgive. If there are issues within your family, reach out and try to find peace during this Christmas season.

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