Chrismas pictures

I didn't get to take a whole lot of pictures this weekend at the services. Everything I got was of the band. Really busy week leading up to the services, but really satisfying. Feel free to tell people what you liked about this weekend in the comment section.

New Orleans Trip Story

Last weekend, 20 people traveled to New Orleans as a way to rethink Christmas. The experience was great, as people's lives in New Orleans were affected as well as the contingency from Crossroads. Here is one story from someone who went from Crossroads:

Well, I have to say...the NOLA experience had such an impact on me. It's really hard to put in to words...I could start out by mentioning that although "I" am "physically" here in Lex. KY...I still remain spiritually and mentally there. The past two days have been quite sombering for me. I will share a few of the many things that I have reflected on since the trip....

As I looked around NOLA, witnessing the complete physical devastation of so many homes, buildings, schools, businesses, etc...the main thing that stands out to me is how the spirit of the people directly effected by this, is still alive!!! The "faith", "commitment" and "hope" in Christ the people spoke about, was absolutely AMAZING! Boy!!! How they made me take a second look at where my walk is with God....Here I was thinking that I would go to NOLA, ministering, witnessing, or whatever God's purpose was for me to go, but what He had in store was not what I'd anticipated! THOSE PEOPLE with their great faith and dedication to the Lord, actually ministered to ME! Is my walk with God of such, that I would have that strong of faith as they did? This experience has made me yearn for a closer relationship with God, my brothers & sisters, and realizing I need to do more for my community. There is just SO MUCH more that I have realized since Sunday, that it's almost impossible to mention...I'm just so grateful for this opportunity! Thank you God!

The fellowship with the rest of the group was awesome as well! I am new to Crossroads, so being able to build relationships with the others was something I have needed for a long time. I'm am thankful for you ALL! Please keep me in your prayers, as I continue to seek God's will in my life, and building my faith in Him! I am so blessed to have united with such wonderful people!

Be blessed,Karen

The Sears Wishbook

I recently wrote a column about my love for the Sears Christmas catalog when I was a kid. You can read it here.

Reading back over the column in light of Griff's message this week makes me realize as a kid how much Christmas revolved around receiving gifts. As an adult, I notice it's become much more about giving for me.

Over the past couple of years I've found myself really enjoying shopping for Sara and my family and friends (be it in a store or online). Between that and the joy I get from cooking on the holidays, I don't think the kid I used to be would recognize the adult I've become (not that I can't be as selfish and receiving-focused as the next guy sometimes still).

How about you? How does Christmas for you, as an adult, differ from your Christmases as a child?