Fellowship—October 2009
Take Your Shoes Off in the House
lished time, have her write down the
items that she identified. Give a prize
to the woman who guesses the most
items correctly.
Prizes
Award foot related items or a copy of
the poem “Footprints in the Sand.”
Decorations
Display items pertaining to feet—
stickers, shoes, posters, socks, stack of
shoeboxes, shoe polish, shoehorns.
Refreshments
Serve grape juice—representing
grapes pressed by feet, foot long hot
dogs, bear claws and Gummy® feet.
For the brave, have them try pig’s feet.
Program Ideas
Everyone loves a good foot massage
Foot Massage and Pedicure
and a pedicure can be a real treat. This
can be done with partners, each work-
ing on the other or as a demonstration.
Supplies needed: Emery boards, nail
polish, foot cream, pumice or foot
scraper, toe separators, cotton balls,
nail clippers, footbath, soap.
Make copies of the footprints of var-
Animal Foot Prints
ious animals. Have the women guess
each animal’s footprint.
The following sites have examples:
http://pelotes.jea.com/footprn.htm.
http://www.leslietryon.com/ani-
mals1101/animalfootprints.html.
Games
Have the woman place their shoes in
Shoe Relay
a pile in the center of the room. Ask
them to line up forming two teams.
On command a woman from each
team must find her shoes, put them on
and fall back into the line. This is
repeated until all team members have
both shoes on. The first team to
accomplish this is the winner.
Place about 15 to 20 items that relate
Shoe Box
to the theme in a shoe box—shoelaces,
shoe polish, a shoehorn, socks, nylons,
footies, nail polish, manicure scissors,
nail clippers. Blindfold each woman
and ask her to identify the items in the
shoe box by touch. After an estab-
Captain Janet Duperree
Eastern Territory
Where Did You Go?
Prior to the devotional, ask the
women to make a list of places their
feet took them during that day or the
prior week. At the end of the devo-
tional have them review the list to see
if they could have used their steps in
better ways.
Beautiful Feet
I keep a supply of slippers in the closet near the entry at our house and
encourage guests to remove their shoes and relax during their visit. In
Bible days it was customary for travelers to have their feet washed before
entering a house. Although a slave usually performed this task, Jesus
washed His disciples’ feet as a demonstration of love and servanthood.
Many times we see a need but wait for someone else to take care of it.
Jesus gave us many examples to follow by showing servant leadership.
We sing the song, “To be like Jesus, this hope possesses me,” but many
times we want to pick and choose when we want to be like Jesus. We
need to respond to the needs of others as He would.
Paul writes, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news”
(Rom. 10:15). What a peculiar verse. I’ve seen many feet that I wouldn’t
consider beautiful and have been close enough to some where the odor
redirected my course. When I think of people who have beautiful feet, I
don’t see feet with a professional pedicure, pretty and painted. I see
someone using their feet to go and do things for others—shopping for
someone who can’t get out of the house, cooking and taking meals to
someone who is sick, or helping someone by using a talent or gift they
have to benefit others.
When our feet are used for the right purposes, they are transformed;
they are beautiful. I believe this begins in our homes with our families.
The world can be very ugly with dark and depressing news. That’s why
we must have beautiful feet to carry a message to the world, a message
of good news about God’s love. “People don't care how much you know
until they know how much you care.” Another saying reminds us,
“Actions speak louder than words.” People will see the beauty of Christ,
when you put it into action.
Psalm 119:105 proclaims, “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to
my path.” When His Word is recognized in our homes, it brings peace
and beauty to our loved ones, and spreads to others. “Make level paths
for your feet, so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed”
(Heb. 12:13). Our beautiful feet are important in developing beautiful feet
in others. An old Sunday school song carries the message, “Do you know,
O Christian, you’re a sermon in shoes? Jesus counts upon you to spread
the Gospel news, so walk it and talk it, preach it and teach it, live it and
give it, know it and show it—a sermon in shoes.”
We leave our mark in life by our actions, words and deeds beginning in
the home and extending to those we encounter every day. May our faith
walk be constant and always honoring to God. Let’s take a look at the
lists of where our feet have trod today. It’s good to consider how we may
beautify our feet for better service to God. Before we depart from this
place, let us take time to pray for the places where our feet will go in the
future and that God would be honored in our every step.
3
Education—October 2009
Major Mary Corliss GIGO—Garbage In, Garbage Out
Central Territory
The Internet
The Internet has changed the way
we live, conduct business and com-
municate with others. It is a wonder-
ful media for obtaining information
and educational material. However, it
can be a wolf in sheep’s clothing.
Quite innocently you can be surfing
the web and find yourself confronted
with pornographic, sexually explicit
or other inappropriate sites. Parents
and grandparents should be particu-
larly aware how much time and what
sites children are viewing. Check the
following sites and ask a couple of the
women to give a report on the infor-
mation found there.
❁ www.enough.org—Enough is
Enough—information providing
rules and tools for Internet safety
❁ www.family.org/entertainment—
Focus on the Family Entertain Site
❁ www.themoreyouknow.com/inter-
net_safety—NBC Internet Safety
/pguidee.htm—FBI Site—A parents
❁www.fbi.gov/publications/pguide
guide to the Internet
❁ www.nationalcoalition.org—The
National Coalition for the Protection
of Children and Families
❁ www.webwisekids.org—informa-
tion on how to protect children from
predators on the web
Internet Access
Connect a LCD projector to a com-
puter that has Internet access so the
women will be able to see how to use
the Internet. Have someone explain
the use of search engines, email,
instant messaging, chat rooms, My-
Space and web addresses. This would
be a good service project for the Girl
Guards who are working on earning
their computer emblem.
Library
Take a field trip to the library and
have the librarian explain how to use
the computers available there.
Music
How often do we put the radio on
but really aren’t listening to it? It is
just background noise. It is amazing
how quickly the words of the songs
penetrate our minds and we find
we’ve memorized them and can sing
along. Sometimes the words are not
encouraging, uplifting or becoming of
a Christian. Do you know what music
your children are listening to? What
message is being conveyed? Play
some examples of songs that are pop-
ular with young people. Print out the
words so the women can see and
understand their message. website gives information on movie
ratings: www.filmratings.com.
TV and Movies
Many of the shows on TV today are
sexually explicit. At one time these
Refreshment
Serve a “garbage cake,” so called
were only shown on the cable chan-
because you add everything but the
nels. Explain how channels can be
kitchen sink. Use a new, clean garbage
blocked to prevent viewing. If possi-
can lid as a platter for the cake. It may
ble, demonstrate how to go about
be necessary to prop up the lid be-
blocking a channel. The following
cause of the handle.
websites give further information.
Ask one of the women to share the
information from these sites. One chocolate cake mix. Prepare as
Garbage Cake
❁ www.themoreyouknow.com/ directed. Add: 1 tbsp. butter, 1/2 cup
coconut, 10 chopped maraschino
Monitoring_Kids_TV_Viewing—
cherries, 1/2 cup chocolate chips, 1/2
NBC—Monitoring Kids TV Watching
cup chopped nuts, 1 cup raisins.
❁ www.TheTVBoss.org—Parental
Controls for TV watching Bake at 350 degrees in 9x13 pan
Many movies are not suitable for according to package directions. Frost
children or Christians. The following if desired.
Be Careful
We need to be careful what we allow to come into our homes via tele-
vision, radio, computer, books and videos. Modern technology has made
it so easy for us to have access to a world of instant and constant sight
and sound. Most homes have a television on, a radio playing and a com-
puter running. They provide entertainment, distraction or company.
Do you think you can watch any movie or television show you want, or
listen to any kind of music without experiencing any effect? The world’s
message is often broadcast through these mediums, and we are like
sponges. Whatever we hear and see, we soak up and take in. Ephesians
6:12 (NLT) tells us, “For we are not fighting against people made of flesh
and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world,
against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and
against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms.” If we take garbage in, we
get garbage out.
Psalm 101:2,3 reminds us to be careful to live blameless lives of integri-
ty in our homes and to refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar. Our job
is to protect our children as well as guard our own hearts. How do we do
that? The Bible urges, “Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable
and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable.
Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise” (Phil. 4:8
NLT).
I am reminded of a chorus we used to sing: “Be careful, little eyes, what
you see and be careful, little ears, what you hear. For the Father up above
is looking down in love, so be careful, little eyes, what you see.” Although
this is a children’s chorus, it has an important message to adults.
Remember—garbage in, garbage out.
4

Worship Center
On a round–skirted table place a
Bible opened to Proverbs 24:3. Beside
it put a framed picture of a family or a
My Own Place
1. What is her favorite color?
2. Where will she spend most of her
time in the house?
3. What appliance will she use the
most?
4. What is her favorite color to be
used inside the house?
5. Does she prefer to open her win-
dows or use the air conditioner?
6. What is her favorite dinner to pre-
Service—October 2009
Major Brenda Singletary
Southern Territory
house. Without skipping a letter of the
alphabet, invite the women to list as
many items as they can of things to be
found in these rooms. Give prizes of
household items to the winners and
encourage them to give their prizes to
the guest.
Place ten household items in sepa-
What’s in the Bag

new home. Add small items that are
needed in every new home—measur-
ing cups, dish towels, kitchen utensils.
Refreshments
Serve a cake decorated with the
words “Welcome Home.”
Service Projects
pare?
7. Would she rather dust or vacuum?
8. Does she consider herself a morn-
ing person or a night owl?
9. What is her favorite time of day?
10. Does she work in the yard with
gloves on or off?
Games
rate bags and close the top so the
items cannot be seen. The leader starts
this game by giving hints as to what
item is in the first bag and continues
giving hints until someone guesses
correctly. That woman opens the next
bag and gives hints as to its contents.
This continues until all the bags have
been opened. As the items are correct-

Distribute sheets of paper printed ly identified, they are given to the

A Through Z
Contact your local Habitat for
Habitat for Humanity
with the names of various rooms in a
Humanity chapter for information on
things that are happening in your
community and how the women’s
ministries group can help. Their web-
site is www.habitat.org.
Locate a family in the community
Shower
that will become a Habitat for
Humanity homeowner. Set a date to
hold “A Dream Come True … My
Own Place” shower for them.
Ahead of time, make a list of house-
hold items that are needed in setting
up a new home. Check to see if there
are any children in the family and add
items that could be used in a child’s
bedroom to the list. Ask the women to
bring an item or two from the list.
These should be wrapped and placed
in a laundry basket with a large bow.
Add a tag indicating “To: Someone
Special From the Women of the Home
League of The Salvation Army.
Include information about the
Special Opportunity
shower recipient.
A Place Called Home
At the end of the day isn’t it wonderful to find our refuge in the place
we call home? It doesn’t really matter if it’s an apartment, a single rent-
ed room or a house. It’s home. A beautifully decorated home is nice but
what really matters is what fills it. A house doesn’t make a home.
I grew up in a family of eight. We all slept in two bedrooms. I never
knew what it was to have my own room, as I shared a single bed with my
younger sister. We shared everything—the closet, the dresser drawers
and the one bathroom. Did I ever want for anything more? No!
As I look back it amazes me that I was quite happy with my home.
Why? It was because when I reached home I looked forward to being
with my mom, dad, brothers and sisters. I looked forward to eating
together, watching TV together, playing kick ball in the backyard, wash-
ing the family car or drying dishes at the kitchen sink as my older sister
washed them. This is what made us a family and our house a home.
Home was a place where everyone felt a sense of love and belonging.
As we think of what the home symbolizes, how grateful we should be
to a wise God who even before we were conceived designed a plan and
pattern for our lives. There’s nothing more pleasing than walking up to
the front door of someone’s home and seeing a welcome mat. God
extends to us a welcome mat—a place where we can feel wanted, safe
and secure. Is your heart a place where God feels welcome and is at

women’s ministries group in the bas- home?

ket, giving the time, day and where
In Proverbs 24:3 we read, “It takes wisdom to build a house, and under-
you meet. Ask a couple of the women
standing to set it on a firm foundation” (The Message). Is there dissension
to follow up on your guest so that she
in your home? Are cross words exchanged between family members,
feels welcome and wants to return for
which result in hurt feelings? As women who long to have a heart after
future meetings.
God, we need to ask Him to help us fill every room of our homes with
love, joy and peace. Take Proverbs 24:3 and build your home on the wis-
dom found in God’s Word. He will supply you with whatever you need
Getting to Know You
Ask the women to guess how they
think your guest will answer the fol- to bring harmony into your home and will set it on a firm foundation.
lowing questions: Make Him the center of your life.

5
Worship—October 2009
Commissioner Debi Bell
For the Western Territory
Purpose
This program will introduce the
twelve worship programs for this
year’s “A Beautiful Home” series.
Each of the programs will explore a
different part of a home and how it
relates spiritually to our individual
situations. This program focuses on
the importance of having a dedicated
quiet time so that we can have a beau-
tiful heart that Jesus will feel comfort-
able in as He makes it His home.
The Setting
If meeting around tables, use small
model homes or birdhouses as the
centerpieces. An inexpensive place to
find them is on line at www.collec-
tionsetc.com where everything is
$19.95 or less or go to www.terrysvil-
lage.com for other great bargains.
Program Outline
Welcome
Call to Worship—Psalm 84:1–4
Song 670, “Abide With Me”*
Scripture Reading: John 15:1–17
Story, My Heart, Christ’s Home
www.geocities.com/heartland/flats/
4048/heart.html
Devotion—My Home
Discussion
Closing Prayer
*The Salvation Army Song Book
Program Cover
Earlier in the week have a couple of
women make the program covers
from folded card stock. Either print or
make a house using brown or white
construction paper cut into the shape
of a house. Add additional cut out
shapes for the roof, windows and a
door. Glue a small red heart on the
door where a wreath would hang.
Print the program outline and place
inside the program cover.
My Heart, Christ’s Home
My Home
The short story, My Heart, Christ’s Home, by Robert Boyd Munger sounds
a whole lot better than a nightmare I had. In it I lived in a beautiful man-
sion owned by Jesus. It was clean, well decorated with a beautiful view.
The library was furnished with comfortable furniture and beautiful
books. The kitchen was well stocked and had the latest appliances. The
living room was elegant and the family room had a large television. The
beds were made. The bathrooms had large soaking tubs and inviting
fluffy towels. The dining room had a cabinet filled with beautiful china.
In my dream, it was a sunny, quiet day and I had the back door open to
catch the cool breeze that was blowing the graceful trees. I also opened
the garage door to take advantage of the cross breeze. In the dream I got
absorbed with a project and did not notice that people were beginning to
set up a party on the front lawn. When I did notice, I was not concerned
at first because there was enough space to share. Soon the noise and
clamor began to grow, so I went to check out what was happening. To my
amazement some people had backed their cars into the garage and were
having a tailgate party. The front yard was filled with people sitting in
groups and having picnics. I tried to order the people out of the garage,
but they laughed at me and refused to leave.
I went back inside the house only to find that people had come inside
too. They were having meetings, parties, family gatherings and some
were using and enjoying my things. I yelled and ordered them out. Many
were embarrassed that I noticed they had come uninvited, but still
refused to leave. Some said they would leave after their party. They rea-
soned that if I did not want them there I should have kept them out. A
women’s ministries group was meeting by the fireplace in the family
room. They were led by an older woman who was patronizing and
manipulating. She explained that she and her group came to this house
because they knew it would be a lovely day and on lovely days I always
left the front door open. She was surprised that I could be so upset. As I
angrily began to call her to account, I woke up.
What a nightmare! I remember trying to explain that it was Good
Friday and my plans had been to have a quiet day, enjoy my devotional
time and just be with my friend Jesus. They agreed that was a noble plan
but still refused to leave. I never thought to ask Jesus, the owner of the
home, to help me evict the interlopers and help me get control over the
situation.
Like Robert Boyd Munger’s story was about a dream, which served as
a parable, my nightmare was a parable or warning. In the story, My Heart
Christ’s Home, the owner of the home/heart invited Christ in to become
his guest. John 14:23 tells us that when we love Jesus and obey His teach-
ing He will come and make His home in our heart. Jesus has been the
owner of my heart for many years. It is a home that has continual
improvements made and is not finished yet. He is the owner and I am the
steward so I am supposed to have control over who enters my home.
However, there are times when I let my calendar and my life get filled
with distractions. Soon they overrun me and take control of my heart, the
home of Jesus. My nightmare of a beautiful home overrun with people
and their activities is a reflection of how my life can get out of control and
a reminder to let Jesus help me keep things in order.
Following the devotional ask the following: Is your heart Christ’s home? Is it
filled with order or have other things crowded Jesus out? Read John 15:1–17 again
and discuss what it means to abide in Jesus.
6

Home Is Where the Hearth Is
Decorations
This program would be most effec-
tive if done in someone’s home in a
relaxing homey environment. If this is
not possible, set up the meeting room
to resemble a living room.
Refreshments
According to Wikipedia, “Comfort
from home that is a family heirloom.
Have them share its significance to
their family.
Discussion
1. Do you buy an item because you
Sharing Simple Ways
need it or because you want it?
2. Do you always need to have the
latest gadgets—GPS, BlackBerry®,
hands–free cell phone?
3. Do you go into debt in order to
There Is No Place Like Home
Read Luke 15:11–24
Fellowship—November 2009
Major Bonnie Kirk
Eastern Territory
have the latest model TV, car or
refrigerator?
4. Do you think you have an addic-
tive personality?
5. If you realize that you don’t need
something, do you give it away or do
you keep it just in case you might
need it in the future?
6. Are you easily influenced by others
or do you make up your own mind?
7. Do you prefer a walk in the park or
tickets to a Broadway show?

food is typically inexpensive, uncom-
plicated and easy to prepare. The rea-
sons a dish becomes a comfort food are
many, but often it is because of pleas-
ant associations of childhood and fam-
ily.” Ask the women to bring one of
their family’s favorite comfort foods
and the recipe to share with the group.
Program Ideas
Speakers—check to see if there is
Genealogy
someone in the corps who is knowl-
edgeable on the subject of genealogy
and would be willing to share infor-
mation about it.
Websites: There are a number of sites
where you can start a family tree at no
cost. Sometimes there is a cost after
the initial visit. Use a computer with
Internet access and a LCD projector to
show the women how to get started.
These are a few of the sites:
www.genealogy.about.com
www.ancestry.com
www.myheritage.com/family-tree
www.familysearch.org
www.familytree.com
Cooking over an open–hearth is the
Open–Hearth Cooking
oldest way to cook. Check to see if
there is someone in your area who is
knowledgeable on this method of
cooking. If not, ask a couple of the
women to research the topic and give
a report to the group. There are a
number of sites on the Internet on this
subject. Enter “open–hearth cooking”
using your favorite search engine.
Ask the women to bring an item
Family Heirloom
The best treasures we have in life are family and home. The family is the
oldest and probably the most cohesive small group. The person that we
ultimately become is influenced more by our family life than anything
else. As families we spend time together, love together and tolerate each
other’s flaws. We experience ups and downs, joys and sorrows and life
decisions together.
In the Scripture just read, the prodigal son took the best of what his father
had to give and left his family to search for something better. After squan-
dering his life inheritance, he hit bottom and realized just how much he
had lost. It was then that he remembered his family and longed to return
home. He knew that even if he became a servant rather than a son, he
would be better off than remaining in his present position. He longed for
the comfort, acceptance, familiarity and warmth of home and family.
While living in New York City in the early 1970s, my husband and I
went to a Broadway show titled “Pippin.” The story is about Prince
Pippin, the son of French King Charlemagne. Pippin had just returned
home from university and was seeking for the meaning of life. He decid-
ed that he wanted to be extraordinary but he missed all the simple joys
of life and family in his quest to be special. He experimented with every-
thing to find fullness and happiness, ignoring the advice of those around
him who said that fame and fortune would not make him happy. Like the
prodigal son, Pippin also hit rock bottom and realized that happiness is
found in love and family. The show ends with Pippin standing on a com-
pletely empty stage holding the hands of the two people that mean the
most to him—the love of his life and her son.
Wikipedia, the on–line encyclopedia, tells us “In common historic and
modern usage, a hearth is a brick or stone–lined fireplace or oven used
for cooking or heating. Because of its nature, in historic times the hearth
was considered an integral part of a home, often its central or most
important feature.” Generally when we refer to “keeping the home fires
burning,” it means keeping the family together. From the early days,
families gathered around the hearth, the warmest place in the home, to
pray, sing, tell stories, read the Bible, eat and just be together. Family was
the most important thing.
It is not coincidental that the word “hearth” is very close to the word
“heart.” We can always find ourselves again at the center of the very
heart of God who is home for each one who believes. He is always there
beckoning us into the warmth and light of His presence. We need to take
our place in the shadow of His love for us. There as His children we will
find acceptance and the simple joy of life.

7
Education—November 2009
Major Jan Hendrickson Welcome to Our House
Central Territory
Introduction
Sitting by the bedside of a woman
who was dying, the conversation
turned to our homes and family. She
said to me, “If I could do it all over
again, I would set out the best china
and linens for my family. I would have
treated them as well as I treated my
guests.” Holidays are a time when we
often entertain family as well as
guests.
and list of fun things to do in the
area.
✣ If you have a pet, make sure your
guests know as they may suffer with
allergies.
✣ Plan activities ahead of time for
entertainment. Know what events are
ans or have dietary restrictions.
happening around town so you can
❊ Pick up menus from local restau-
provide this information to your
guests. rants.
✣ If they are bringing a pet or small
children, have a child gate handy. ✣ Arrive and leave when you say
When You Are the Guest

Program Suggestions you will.

Ask someone who has the gift of hos-
Speaker
pitality to speak to the group about
being a good hostess as well as a wel-
come guest.
Using your favorite search engine on
Report
the Internet enter, “How to Prepare for
Guests.” Ask a couple of the women
to give a report to the group utilizing
this data and the information provid-
ed below.
✣ Clean your house. Air it out as you
Preparing for Overnight Guests
❊ When you have house guests, sim-
What to Eat
ple is always better. Do as much of
the food preparation ahead of time as
possible. This will allow you more
time to enjoy your company.
❊ Set your coffee maker to brew for
early risers. Continental breakfast is
easy and offers a variety. Lunch is a
good time for soup and a sandwich.
A casserole, salad and rolls are good
choices for dinner.
❊ Know what beverages your guests
like and have them available.
❊ Learn beforehand if your guests
✣ Bring a small gift upon arrival and
leave a thank you note when you
depart.
✣ Don’t surprise your host by bring-
ing your cat or dog.
✣ Ask before using the phone or TV.
✣ Don’t make your hosts feel like
short–order cooks; eat what’s offered.
✣ Offer to help with meal prepara-
tion, table setting and clean–up. If
your hostess says no to your offer,
respect her wishes.
✣ Don’t cause controversy by bring-
ing up a topic that you know will

have any food allergies, are vegetari- cause dissension.

clean by opening the windows.
✣ Look for things that could be a
hazard to the elderly such as loose
rugs and electrical cords.
✣ Move breakables away from areas
where children might be tempted to
reach out and touch.
✣ Make the beds with fresh clean
linens. Extra blankets and pillows
add comfort and ensure a good
night’s sleep.
✣ Place a small table with a reading
lamp, magazines or books of short
stories or poetry, a Bible and a devo-
tional book next to the bed.
✣ Provide space in a dresser drawer
or closet, with empty hangers, to give
your guests a place to put their
things.
✣ An alarm clock and a night light
are thoughtful touches.
✣ In a large basket place bath towels,
hand towels and washcloths. Add
some essentials like toothbrushes,
toothpaste, razor, soap, hotel size bot-
tles of shampoo conditioner and
hand lotion.
✣ Make sure the shower and toilet
are in working order.
✣ Provide your guest with a map
Practice Hospitality
Romans 12:13 tell us to practice hospitality. During the holiday season
many of us will have guests in our homes and we will have an opportu-
nity to make them feel welcome. We want them to feel at home and have
a good time. But a lot depends on us. Are we ready for their coming? Are
we comfortable with them being there or do we feel stressed? Is the tim-
ing of their visit good for all concerned?
Luke 19 tells about a man so short of stature that he had to climb up a
tree to see Jesus. As Jesus passed by the tree, He stopped, looked up and
said, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house
today” (verse 5). We usually have forewarning when company is coming.
Zacchaeus did not, yet he was a gracious host. Scripture tells us that he
welcomed Jesus gladly.
If Jesus came to your house today, what would he find? Would you wel-
come Him gladly or would you have to say, “Wait a minute; I have some
things I need to take care of before I let You in.” Would you be kicking
things under the sofa, hiding books and magazines, changing pictures on
the wall or boxing up your CDs and DVDs because they were not appro-
priate and you wouldn’t want Jesus to see them? Would you be dusting
off the Bible and putting it in an obvious place?
In John 14:23 we read, “Jesus replied, ‘If anyone loves Me, he will obey
My teaching. My Father will love him, and We will come and make Our
home with him.’” Imagine, the Creator of the universe wants to make His
home with you. Your heart must be as clean and inviting as your home
would be when expecting guests. Jesus wants to be at home with you.
Are you ready?

8
 A Tisket, a Tasket Service—November 2009
Major Kathy Whittaker
Southern Territory
A Very Welcome Basket
3. Popeye Olive Oil
4. Gilligan
Speakers
Invite the director from the commu- Skipper
nity shelter for victims of domestic 5. Bonnie Clyde
abuse to speak about their services 6. Adam Eve
and how the women can volunteer to 7. Laurel Hardy
No Ordinary Basket
I found a wicker basket, 8. Jack
help. Jill
And prayed a simple prayer, 9. Mickey Minnie
Lord, let me find the right things Ask the fire department to provide a 10. Batman Robin
To show someone I care. speaker on fire safety in the home. 11. David Jonathan
I’ll decorate the basket, Contact the police department and 12. Bert Ernie
With ribbons, bow, and glue, secure a speaker on personal safety, 13. Hansel Gretel
No ordinary basket, home protection or scam artists. 14. Robin Hood Maid Marian
It’s got a job to do. 15. Lucy Desi
16. Wally Cleaver Eddie Haskell
For someone’s hurting somewhere,
Friends Game
Match up the names of these friends. 17. Nancy Sluggo
There’s someone who needs cheer, The answers are in italics. 18. Abbott Costello
Someone may need a “Thank You” 1. Sonny Cher 19. Rocky Bullwinkle
For helping me this year. 2. Romeo Juliet 20. Elvis Priscilla
And so I’ll take my basket,
And offer it in love,
A gift of my true friendship,
And blessings from above.
Friendship—The Gift That Keeps on Giving
—Kathy Whittaker
If someone were to ask you how many friends you have, you might
have to think before giving your answer. According to the Webster’s
Program Preparation Dictionary, the word friend is defined as: “A person you know well and
Decide on one of the service projects regard with affection and trust; an associate who provides assistance; or
listed below and ask the women to a person with whom you are acquainted.
donate the items needed. Decorate
large baskets with fall colored ribbons God’s gift to us, in the form of friends, is one of the many ways that He
and bows. If you have a speaker, at the takes care of us. From the beginning in the Garden of Eden, God declared,
close of the program present the filled “It is not good for man to be alone.” Even though God walked in fellow-
basket to them. ship with Adam, God decided that Adam needed human companionship
and friendship as he journeyed through life.
In Proverbs 17:17 we read, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is
Service Projects
Ask the women to put together bas-
kets of beauty and health items for the born for adversity.” The whole design of friendship is to avoid being left
clients at the domestic abuse shelter. alone when the times of hardship and trouble arise. It is said that
Include new small stuffed animals for throughout our lifetime we may have many acquaintances, but we may
the children . be blessed with only a very small number of true friends. A true friend is
loyal and will stick with you “come rain or shine,” through the good
Fill baskets with paper plates, nap- times and the bad. When you suffer, a true friend feels your pain. She is
kins, towels and toilet tissue. Share willing to make the sacrifice of time and effort to be there for you, to drop
these with shut–ins in the community. you a note, call you on the phone or visit.
Make up baskets with baby items for A true friend will look you straight in the eye and tell you when you’re
new mothers. Have the women take wrong about something important, even if you don’t really want to hear
these to the hospital’s maternity ward. it. George Herbert, a Welsh poet, wrote, “The best mirror is an old
Include information about women’s friend.”
ministries and other corps programs,
along with an invitation for the When I was a child, I was very shy; I didn’t have many friends. I
women and their families to attend. remember feeling sorry for myself and spoke with my dad about it. He
said, “In order to have a friend, you have to be one.” I didn’t understand
Donations of school supplies can be at the time, but as I grew older, I realized that he was telling me that hav-
placed in baskets for delivery to selected ing and being a friend required an investment of myself. Proverbs 18:24
schools in low–income communities. (NKJ) says, “A man who has friends must himself be friendly. But there
is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”
Fire and police departments give
valiant service throughout the year. Are you the kind of friend you should be to others? Do you always
Baskets filled with snacks, baked show love even when your feelings have been hurt? Can people count on
goodies and bottled water are a won- you to be there for them? Has your friendship influenced someone else’s
derful expression of gratitude and life? Are you always a true friend?
friendship.

9
Worship—November 2009
Captain Kory Acosta
Western Territory
Setting the Scene
Put a welcome sign on the door to
the room where the group meets.
Place a welcome mat at the entrance.
Since this program emphasizes asking
Jesus to “move in,” have boxes and
packing material around the room to
give it a moving look.
Introduction
Give each woman a program. On the
cover use the acronym H O M E—
Heart, Openness, Mirrored and En-
couraging. This will help communi-
cate the message and help the women
feel the inspiration and anticipation of
inviting and welcoming Jesus into
their heart. On the inside of the invita-
tion print the program outline and the
following poem.
For my heart to be His throne,
That is my one desire,
That He see fit to reign and remain
And instill in my life His fire.
That I may serve Him truly,
Follow closer still
May my heart be an open door,
Content with His gracious will.
—Captain Kory Acosta
Program Outline
Welcome
Icebreaker
Word Game
Welcome Wreath Project
Song #241, “Room for Jesus”
(The Salvation Army Song Book)
Prayer
Scripture Reading
Devotional—H O M E
Closing Prayer
Ice Breaker
Depending on the group’s size,
divide the women into smaller teams
to encourage greater participation.
Have them share their best or worst
moving experience to a new home.
Chose one or two stories from each
group to share with all the women.
Give prizes to those who share the
funniest stories.
Word Game
Ask the women to create as many
Welcome To My Home
words as possible from the phrase
“Majestic Homes.” So far the record
has been 51 words.
Welcome Wreath
Purchase miniature straw or vine
wreaths. You will need one per per-
son. Provide small silk flowers, rib-
bon, buttons, jewelry and other items
suitable to decorate the wreaths. Have
the women glue the decorations on
the wreath with a hot glue gun.
HOME
Read Revelation 3:20. Use a number of translations so that the Word can convey
its special meaning to the women.
How many times have we had opportunities come and go because we
missed the chance to take them? I wonder how many ways I missed out
on welcoming God into my newly–formed life as a young married
woman. My husband and I missed out in the simplest and most obvious
ways.
As a newlywed couple, we lived in a nice community and were so excit-
ed to have our own little place in El Paso, Texas. We worked hard to have
the pleasures of modern material goods such as a gated pool, great air
conditioning in the dry desert heat and a guaranteed parking space in
front of our home. As I look back, I now realize we missed so many
opportunities for spiritual growth because our time was centered on
gaining worldly comforts rather than spiritual growth. Our focus was on
the latest electronic equipment and furniture, rather than the gentle
knocking of Christ seeking His place in our hearts. And through those
actions came complacency, much like the church that John was address-
ing in Revelation 3:20.
He reminded the Laodicean church that though they had all the riches
and material comforts the world could offer, their ears were deaf to the
gentle knocking of Jesus at their heart’s door. As newlyweds, we too fell
into the ritual of working hard for personal gain, but neglected the great-
est free gift being offered. This gift would endure and satisfy, giving a
sense of peace, fulfillment and joy. God offers what we need rather than
the temporal things we often desire.
Maybe you’ve been seeking after things rather than God. Are you just
going through the motions without really knowing God? Look again at
the acronym on the cover of the invitations—H O M E. H stands for our
Heart where Jesus wants to live forever. Our heart must be the dwelling
place for the King of kings. Do you have something in your heart that
needs to be removed to make room for Him? O is for openness. Let’s seek
conversation with Jesus and a meaningful and life changing relationship
with Him. M is for mirrored, which means we need to be a reflection of
His love to others, to demonstrate the love and peace we’ve found
though our relationship with Jesus. Lastly, E stands for encouraging. We
are called to encourage one another, to lift each other up as we grow
together in Christ’s love.
As we close this time together, let us remember to constantly open the
door of our hearts to God. It’s time we welcome Jesus to His permanent
home, our hearts.
10

Entertaining Angels
Program Ideas
Ask one of the women who deco-
Christmas Party
rates her home for the holidays if she
would host a Christmas gathering.
Have Christmas music playing softly
when the women arrive for this event.
Invite the women to bring their
Angel Decorations
favorite angel decoration. Ask them to
share why it is special to them.
Instead of exchanging gifts with
Christmas Gifts
each other, invite the women to bring
gifts for a family in the Adopt–
a–Family program or for children
enrolled in the Angel Tree program.
✣ Do you believe in angels?
Discussion
✣ Have you ever felt the presence of
a angel?
✣ Can you share about a time when
you were comforted or helped by an
angel?
✣ Can you think of a time when you
might have entertained an angel but
were not aware of it until later?
Games
Create a list of names or titles and
have the women match them to the
statements. The answers are in italics.
1. City of Angels
Hidden Angels
Los Angeles
2. Arctic seaport Wrangell, Alaska
3. Sistine painter Michelangelo
4. Children’s story The Littlest Angel
5. Billy Graham’s book Angels,
6. Old hit TV show Charlie’s Angels
Angels, Angels
7. Baked in an oven Angel Food Cake
8. Michael Arch Angel
9. Broadway’s “Mame”
Angela Lansbury
10. Christmas trim Angel Hair
11. Song about wedded bliss
I Married an Angel
12. Spiritual song Angels Watchin’
Over Me
Fellowship—December 2009
Patt Conroy
Eastern Territory
13. Dale Evans’ book Angel Unaware 7. God spoke to this man through an
14. National Commander who played angel and a burning bush. Moses
a harp. Evangeline Booth 8. Angels rescued this man from the
15. A boy’s name Angelo cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. Lot
9. An angel rescued this woman and
her son when they were forced to
1. This man wrestled all night with leave Abraham and Sarah.
Angels in the Bible
Hagar
an angel. Jacob 10. An angel rolled away the stone
2. This angel appeared to Joseph and from His tomb. Jesus
Mary to announce that Jesus would 11. Angels told these people that
be born. Gabriel Christ would come back to earth just
3. An angel spoke through this man’s as they saw Him ascend into heaven.
donkey. Balaam the Disciples
4. They were thrown out of a garden 12. This is the only archangel men-
and an angel prevented them from tioned in the Bible. Michael
returning. Adam and Eve 13. This individual was once one of
5. This man was ready to take the life the highest angels in heaven, but fell
of his only son, but God sent an angel from heaven because of pride.
to prevent him. Abraham Satan
6. This man refused to acknowledge 14. An angel rescued this man from
his reliance on God so an angel was prison. Paul
commanded to strike him with sick- I5. Angels spoke to this New Testa-
ness. He was eaten alive by worms. ment individual several times in
Herod dreams. Peter
Angels All Around
Have you ever wondered what an angel looks like? If you ask ten peo-
ple, you will probably get ten different answers. Angels are usually
thought of as having a human form and wings.
The Lord sent angels to Abraham to provide food, water and rest before
continuing their journey (Genesis 18 3–5). In Genesis 19:13 we read that
Lot saw two angels at the gate of Sodom and invited them to join him in
his house for the night. Lot prepared a feast for them of unleavened
bread, and they ate together. Lot described these angels as men.
These verses in Genesis show that Abraham and Lot did not dream of
angels but actually saw them and recognized them as being from the
Lord. They invited the angels into their homes, shared their food and ate
with them. Angels may appear to us in our dreams and sometimes in
human form during times of need. God tells us that He will never leave
us nor forsake us. Sometimes He will send angels to comfort us, to deliv-
er messages and to protect us.
Hebrews 13: 1–2 gives us direction and a warning. “Let brotherly love
continue. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by doing so some have
unknowingly entertained angels.” Have you had an opportunity to meet
a stranger’s need for food or shelter? These verses indicate that we should
think about being hospitable when we encounter someone in need,
whether to provide food, clothing, somewhere to sleep or just a listening
ear, for we might be entertaining angels.
God not only wants us to open our hearts to Christ, but to those in need.
He blesses us when we are kind and hospitable to others because we are
sharing Christ–likeness with them.
We see images of angels everywhere during Christmas, but God wants
us to see angels every day. Not just as decorations but as messengers and
helpers He sends into our lives. Will you recognize them and respond?
11
Education—December 2009
Dawn Hayman Tie It With a Bow
Central Territory
Gift Jars
The website http://www.razzledaz-
zlerecipes.com/christmas/gifts/inde
x.htm offers many different gift jar
recipes. Click on “Jar Making Tips” for
helpful safety and other ideas.
Set up stations for each of the jar
recipes. Pre–print the recipes, instruc-
tions and have all the food supplies
needed at each station. Plastic table
coverings, measuring cups, spoons,
and paper towels will also be helpful.
These jars can be made ahead of time
Advent Jars
for each of the women attending the
program, or have the women make
them to give to a family member or
friend. They can be used in the fami-
ly’s devotions each day leading up to
Christmas.
Supplies needed for one jar:
✭ 1 quart canning jar with lid
✭ 25—2" x 2" squares of card stock
printed with holiday patterns
✭ 6 1/2" square of holiday fabric,
trim the edges with pinking sheers
✭ Rubber band to attach the fabric to
the jar lid
✭ Piece of coordinating Christmas
ribbon to cover the rubber band
✭ Paint or pens that will write on
glass
On some of the squares print scrip-
ture verses, prayers, Christmas poems
and words of encouragement. Leave
others blank so that the women can
personalize them for the recipient of
the jar. The squares are placed inside
the jar and are drawn out each day
leading up to Christmas. The outside
of the jars can be personalized with
the recipient’s name. Rubber band the
fabric on the jar lid and tie on with a
piece of coordinating ribbon. Add a
gift tag printed with the words “A Gift
of Love—Tied With a Bow For (recipi-
ent’s name).”
Bow Making
Teach the women how to make bows
to put on their Christmas packages.
For step by step instructions check the
following websites:
www.save-on-crafts.com/howtomake
bows.html
www.craftown.com/instruction/
bows.htm
After the demonstration, invite the
women to try their hand at making a
bow. As it is easier to work with wired
ribbon, have on hand enough ribbon
so that each woman can make a bow.
Gift Wrapping Demonstration
Ask one of the women to demon-
strate the easy way to wrap a gift. You
can find step–by–step instructions on
out the pictures from old Christmas
the Internet.
cards or last year’s calendars and
glue them on newspaper print or
brown paper bags that have been
Alternate Gift Wrapping
Have samples of different ways to
wrap a gift. opened up so they are flat to create
inexpensive gift wrap.
❁ Fabric Gift Bags—cut two pieces of ❁ Lunch Bags—make gift bags from
material that are the same size. Sew lunch bags. These can be rubber
three sides together, turn inside out. stamped for an interesting effect.
Use pinking sheers to finish the top ❁ Wallpaper—discontinued books of
of the bag. Tie with ribbon. wallpaper, which can be obtained
❁ Comic Strips—the Sunday funnies from the paint store can make inter-
make interesting wrapping paper for esting wrapping paper.
children’s gifts. ❁ Old Maps—out–of–date road maps
❁ Christmas Cards or Calendars—cut also work well to wrap gifts.
The Blessing of Giving
I will never forget my first Christmas with my husband’s family. I
remember a tree with the most beautiful packages I had ever seen in my
life under it. Each package was carefully wrapped and then adorned with
intricate ribbons, bows and other decorative picks. It looked like a scene
out of a magazine or Christmas movie.
My father–in–law had a wonderful sense of humor. Each year he
worked hard to creatively present my mother–in–law’s Christmas gift.
He loved to put a pair of earrings on a stuffed animal or hang a beautiful
necklace on the Christmas tree. This particular year he did something a
little out of the norm. He wrapped my mother–in–law’s gift beautifully.
It looked like a regular present. She was surprised when she opened it to
find a giant, golden, mechanics file. She had asked for a new manicure set
and he decided to have some fun and spray paint a gigantic workman’s
file gold for effect. We all laughed so hard. My mother–in–law’s expres-
sion was priceless. She had the heartiest laugh of all.
When I reflect on past Christmases, I think about that gift. Was it the
package that made it special? No. Was it the crazy golden file? Absolutely
not! It was the joy that He gave his wife and it was the delight that she
gave him by showing her appreciation for his creativity and humor.
Paul reminds us of Jesus’ words. They are a simple yet profound truth
that speaks to our hearts during Christmastime. “It is more blessed to
give that to receive” (Acts 20:35).
Christmas celebrates the greatest gift of all—God’s gift of love to us of
His Son wrapped up in swaddling clothes. What are we giving those we
love? Do we give with our hearts? Are we good recipients of the gifts
given to us? Do we allow ourselves to receive the blessings that others try
to give? This year fill your Christmas list with gifts that can simply bless
the hearts of those you love. You will find you will be the one who
receives the greatest blessing.
12

The Stockings Were Hung By
The Chimney With Care
Service Project
Often part of the ministry of The
Salvation Army’s Christmas program
is the distribution of filled Christmas
stockings. We traditionally think of
these being for children, but there are
many other possibilities. Several
weeks before the program decide on
the recipients of the stockings. Ask the
women to donate suitable items.
Purchase the mesh stockings that the
women will fill during the program.
◆ Seniors—socks, gift cards, stamps
Possible Recipients
◆ Shelter Residents—socks, gloves,
scarves, toiletries
◆ Sunday School Teachers—teaching
supplies and goodies
◆ Corps Musicians—valve oil, lip
balm, Army Christmas CD
◆ Foster Children—obtain informa-
tion from the local child protective
services
◆ Homebound Individuals—socks,
paper goods, lotions, magazines,
stamps, sugar free candy
◆ Corps Transportation Volunteers—
gloves, sunglasses, coupons for fast
food treats, gift certificate for a local
restaurant, CD of music
History of Christmas Stockings
Christmas stockings have become a
beloved tradition of the Christmas
season. Some say that the Dutch intro-
duced the tradition to America. In the
16th century children in Holland
would leave their clogs by the hearth
filled with straw for the reindeer or
donkey. Sinterclass would come and
leave treats for the children in the
clogs. Later stockings were substitut-
ed for clogs.
There is another legend of a noble-
man who lost his wife due to an ill-
ness. He was so distraught that he
squandered all his fortune. He had
three daughters who were very kind
and hard workers but he had no
money left for their dowries. St.
Nicholas heard the townspeople dis-
cussing the dismal plight of the girls
destined to be spinsters. He decided to
help anonymously. He rode to the
peasant’s cottage one night and saw
through the window the stockings,
which the girls had washed and hung
Service—December 2009
Major Paula Powell
Southern Territory
on the mantle over the fireplace to dry.
He had an idea, slipped into the house
and placed a bag of gold in each of the
three stockings. Legend continues that
the girls were married and lived hap-
pily the rest of their days.
Poem
Read Clement Moore’s poem, Twas
The Night Before Christmas. You will find
the words on the Internet along with
information about the author.
replace the gum wrapper in the stock-
ing, along with the gloves and pass
Games
the stocking to the next teammate. The
Select two teams of evenly num-
Stocking Relay
first team to finish wins the relay.
bered participants. Give the first per-
son on each team a stocking filled
with individual sticks of sugar free Fill a miniature stocking with as
Miniature Stocking
gum and a pair of cotton work gloves. many small items as possible. The
Team members must reach in the women have to guess the number and
stocking, put on the work gloves, take what they are. The person who comes
out one stick of gum, open it and put closest to the correct count and identi-
it in their mouths. They must then fies the most items wins.
Anticipation
It has been said that the best thing about the Christmas season is the
anticipation. The next best thing is the remembering.
There are many wonderful traditions that we hold dear during
Christmas including the joy of finding a stocking filled with treats on
Christmas morning. Clement Moore’s poem “The Night Before
Christmas,“ helped to establish this tradition. One of the lines reads, “The
stockings were hung by the chimney with care.” They were hung with
great anticipation of good things they would hold when morning came.
Anticipation is a central theme of the Christmas story. The people of
Israel listened with anticipation as the prophets foretold the coming of
Messiah. “For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given, and the govern-
ment will be upon His shoulder. And He will be called Wonderful
Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isa. 9:6).
Elizabeth, the cousin of Mary, anticipated the birth of her son, John the
Baptist, who would be the messenger of Good News. Mary anticipated
the birth of her son, Jesus, who would deliver His people. Joseph antici-
pated the birth of this baby, the son of the Most High God, whom he
would be entrusted to guide through childhood. Simeon anticipated see-
ing the foretold Messiah. Shepherds anticipated finding the baby, the
subject of the angelic chorus, lying in a manger. The Wise Men, guided by
a star, anticipated seeing this King of kings.
There was yet another aspect of anticipation. God the Father anticipat-
ed the reconciliation of a sinful people through the sacrifice of His own
Son. Today we often confuse the wrappings of Christmas with the true
meaning of the celebration. The real Gift is forgotten.
This year, as we prepare for the Christmas celebration, may we antici-
pate anew the coming of Christ. May our gift to Him be a heart filled with
adoration and love. The songwriter reminds us, “Oh come to my heart,
Lord Jesus. There is room in my heart for You.”
13
Worship—December 2009
Captain Kory Acosta
Western Territory
Program Outline
Call to Worship
Song #282, “O, Come to My Heart”
The Salvation Army Song Book
(Read the words)
Psalm 100
Prayer of Praise and Worship
Christmas Past
(Old Family Pictures)
Discussion
Devotional—”Welcome”
Sing the Chorus of #282, “O, Come to
My, Heart Lord Jesus”
Closing Prayers
Christmas Past
Invite the women to bring old fami-
ly Christmas pictures and share the
memories they inspire.
Scrapbook Page
Announce this project ahead of time
and invite members to bring a photo
of their children or grandchildren.
Provide a blank scrapbook page and
the supplies so that the women can
decorate their family pictures.
Discussion
1. What special things does your
family do to make guests feel wel-
come in your home?
2. What gives you a sense of joy
when you welcome and care for
guests in your home?
3. How would your guests feel if
they were allowed only in the
entryway of your home?
Refreshments
Ask the women to bring a Christmas
dessert that reminds them of a joyful
time when they were children. During
the refreshments invite them to share
these memories.
The Entryway
Welcome
Eagerness, excitement, wonder, thrill, hope and dreams—these words
describe anticipation, the waiting for what is to come. What do you look
forward to and how will you react to Christmas this year?
I remember how much I anticipated Christmas in my house when I was
a child. I am the youngest of five, so we were a big group when we gath-
ered together. Including all the extended family, we were huge. What fun
we enjoyed when the entire family came over to visit at our house.
Special food was prepared and the smells of tamales, cookies and pies
were tantalizing. We children would sit close to the Christmas tree won-
dering what was in those beautifully wrapped gift boxes.
A downside of being born and raised in Chicago is that we could expect
a very, very cold Christmas. This meant layers upon layers of clothing
and wet snow boots littering the entryway of the house, which make for
a very awkward entrance for the late arrivals. It also made coming into
the house rather unwelcoming and distracting. Usually it was my duty,
though not one I wanted, to make sure the entryway was clear and free
of obstacles. My folks wanted to make sure our company felt welcome in
our home during this celebratory time of year, when we remembered
again the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
In Luke 7:36–50 we read about Jesus and the woman who washed His
feet. Jesus was an invited guest to the home of a Pharisee. The customary
way of eating during those days was for the guests to recline, prop them-
selves up with their elbows and have their heads close to the table. Dirt
and dust collected on their sandaled feet, requiring the host to wash the
feet of guests before the meal.
A host would also give a kiss of greeting and anoint the head of the
guests he welcomed into the home. This treatment indicated that you
were welcoming the guest into your entire home, not just at the doorway.
Women in those times would never have been invited in or even been
allowed to come close to the table. But this woman felt an overwhelming
need to give her very best to Jesus. She broke her beautiful and very
expensive alabaster jar of perfume and anointed Jesus with it. She then
washed His feet with her hair and tears.
The reaction of the Pharisees was judgmental and critical. Simon called
the woman a sinner, not worthy of touching Jesus. But Jesus had very
severe words for Simon. He indicated that he had judged her incorrectly
and he had also neglected to give Jesus a proper welcome: “Therefore, I
tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—for she loved much. But he
who has forgiven little loves little” (Luke 7:47).
What does that story mean to us? Overflowing love is the natural
response to forgiveness and the appropriate consequence of faith. But
only those who realize the depth of their sin can appreciate the complete
forgiveness God offers through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
What might be hindering you from celebrating with your whole heart
during this beautiful time of the year? Do you recognize and welcome the
birth of Jesus? What obstacles might be at the entryway of your heart that
block Jesus from having every part of you? How do you plan to respond
to the excitement of the gift of Jesus in your life?
May this day be the day you welcome Him with a kiss of greeting and
the anointing of your very best fragrant oil—your life.
14