on the 7th day of Christmas . . .

My True Love gave to me . .
                          Seven Swans a Swimming .....

swans ..paint a picture of graceful elegance as they float atop the water ... did you know that they can be IN the water and yet, not get wet?  by God's design, they were created and equipped to glide along, often in pairs - sometimes solo, yet ever so gently sweeping through the waves and the weeds, often leaving feather tufts as they swim or waddle  ..  and when their down feathers are grouped together they provide a warmth and covering that we so often sink into - the insulation and security that often envelopes and extends protection and hope.

As His Children we also have been given gifts that allow us to live in the world and yet be distinguished from the world .... gifts from the Holy Spirit that allow us to minister to one another as the Church - - the body of Christ.  Gifts that work just as those goose down feathers - - that cover and protect, that nurture and insulate against the storms of live, that keeps us afloat in the midst of the weeds or the waves we encounter as we walk each day ....  God in His grace, has equipped us in various shapes, forms and fashions with an assortment gifts .... that He designed, not for our own personal gain, but for use among His children.  When you look around you, you'll see friends that have the gift of prophecy ... some have ministering hearts, others are great teachers while some clearly are strong in encouraging others.  You'll notice some people that are gracious givers, not just with their money, but with everything in their lives.  And of course, you know those individuals who are just natural born leaders as well as those behind the scenes people who are so compassionate and servant hearted that their quiet and gentle ways keep them busy ... not keeping records.  (Rom. 12:6-8) 

Finding out where you are 'gifted' is often a life long journey for some .. .and a clear cut route for others.  But being able to share the gift of your knitting is an option for ANYone ....  Why not MAKE the time to sit down with a friend and teach her how to knit!  Buy her her favorite color of yarn and some wonderful bamboo or rosewood needles ... a little simple indulgence that will help keep her inspired ....

Slip the goodies into a fun Christmas mug, tuck in a gift card to your favorite coffee shop and along with an invitation for a time and date to sit and meet . . at this busy time of the year who doesn't apprciate a little time when you 'allow' yourself to slow down for a minute or two (hours) to knit, or LEARN to knit!  we've grown so busy in all our hussle and bussle that we are loosing site of so many simple pleasures . . did you know that there really is an ART to domesticity?  Yes, that's your Word for the Day!  Domesticity is affection for the home and its material comforts.  And learning to knit opens doors - - to slow down, to knit and think/pray for others while your knitting ... to create for your home, to ponder and dwell on all those who will visit or live in your home .... to see a need in those people who don't have a home, but could still benefit from a hand knit garment that conveys warmth and concern ... that becomes a tangible demonstration of the gifts that He has equipped and called us to share.

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in

its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do

so as one who speaks the very words of God.

If anyone serves, they should do so with

the strength God provides, so that

in all things God may be praised

through Jesus Christ. To him

be the glory and the power

for ever and ever. Amen. 

I Peter 4:10-11