These results were answers to my prayer that I would love the Lord my God with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength and love my neighbor as myself AND live out these words: "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV.

Who did Jesus do life with?...FRIENDS Who did Jesus change the world with?…FRIENDS Who did Jesus truly call His family?...FRIENDS

With Christmas on the horizon, it seems like this should be a season full of joy, laughter, and family. After all, this is the season where new life came to earth in the form of our Messiah. It is a season where we anticipate our ultimate gift of salvation. Oftentimes, we can be swept away with the joyful nature of the advent season and fail to recognize that this season can also be one of grief for many surrounding us. 

On that beautiful summer morning, I had hiked several miles with my 32 lb backpack strapped securely on my back and I was ready for a break. As I was about to walk down into a mountain valley, I paused. I was captured by the breathtaking beauty of a vast bouquet of wild flowers in bloom everywhere.