Spread the Christmas Joy with Beth Goddard and Giveaway | Day 12

Joy from Beth Goddard

"On Whom His Favor Rests"

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2:14

When Emilie invited me to share a special Christmas memory I struggled to come up with something that stood out because, really, all the Christmases with my family are special. Though by no means wealthy, my parents used what little money they had to make our Christmases an extraordinary event when I was growing up. Yes, we did the whole Santa Claus thing, but we understood the true meaning of Christmas, celebrating the birth of Christ was and still is a priority for us.

That was then, and we still share Christmas together today in the same way, even though I turned fifty this year.

I still go to my Mom and Dad’s for Christmas, just like I have every year since I can remember. Through childhood, college, my YUPPY (young urban professional) years, marriage and children, and even when we lived in Oregon—2200 miles from my Texas home. That was probably the most difficult time. With six people in our family and my husband serving as pastor of a small church, flying to Texas wasn’t an option. So we had to drive to see my parents and it took three very long days, especially since my family lives in East Texas—which meant another day of driving over the great state of Texas.

But being with family is special. It’s important enough to squeeze in a three day drive each way even when it meant only seeing family for a few days. For five years of my life I only saw my parents once a year—for those few precious days over the Christmas holidays. We had to squeeze in all the love and hugs and conversations during that short time, making the most of it. Making it all it could possibly be. And yes, we celebrated big then. No matter how difficult, we made it happen.

Just as in a few days we’ll celebrate big, enjoy the holidays and God’s gift of his son to us. God’s gift of family and friends. This time, I only live three hours away, not three days.

And I know I’m one on whom His favor rests.

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Elizabeth Goddard is an award-winning author of eighteen romance and romantic suspense novels, including the romantic mystery, The Camera Never Lies—winner of the prestigious Carol Award in 2011. After acquiring her computer science degree, she worked at a software firm before eventually retiring to raise her four children and become a professional writer. A member of several writing organizations, she judges numerous contests and mentors new writers. In addition to writing, she home schools her children and serves with her husband in ministry.

Connect with her: http://elizabethgoddard.com
Purchase her book Wilderness Peril HERE

Today's giveaway us another one of those fun vintage-Christmas items, this time a notepad, with a fun little frame.

**Giveaway rules: To enter, comment on each the post (or posts) in the month of December that offer giveaway items you wish to win. One entry per person per giveaway item is permitted. All winners will be drawn in January (after the holiday craziness) and will be notified shortly thereafter.