“I thank God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you.” – Philippians 1:3-4

I’ve been sending Christmas cards with a Christmas letter since 1987 (or maybe earlier).  It’s the one time of year I can count on connecting with some favorite people of my past and present:

• Mrs. Smeltzer, my first grade teacher and a long time family friend;
• Uncle Frank & Aunt Carol, my grandma Mary’s brother and sister-in-law;
• Carol, Pat, and Kathy, office administrators/secretaries who worked at churches where I served (what would I have done without them?);
• dear colleagues in ministry, relatives and friends.

The list shifts a little every year.  Some have died.  Some of us (including me) have changed addresses one too many times to keep up.  Life’s journey means we sometimes lose touch.  There are also new friends, strengthened family relationships, and sometimes a reconnecting with co-workers of yesteryear.

The correspondence is a prayer.  For good health.  For joy filled days.  For comfort in sorrow.  For wisdom in decision making.  For courage in hard times.  For strength.  For rest.  For renewal.

“And this is my prayer, that your love may overflow more and more with knowledge and insight to help you determine what is best…” – Philippians 1:9-10a

May you have a song in your heart, practice kindness with yourself and others, and find joy in every day life.

Blessings, Teressa