31 Family Devotions For Christmas Day TWELVE Dec. 12th

13 Days Until Christmas

How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God Reigns!"

ISAIAH 52:7

Family gatherings seem to be more freguent in December than any other time of the year. You'll most likely be around quite a bit of your extended family. Maybe some are Christians who are following the Lord, while others aren't. Decide to be a good example for all of your family members. It's easy to get caught up in family gossip at these large gatherings, but instead, keep your conversations full of good tidings. Be the family member who is always sharing good news and peace with others.

Prayers:

Father, please forgive me for the times that I have gossiped. Help my conversations always to be pleasing to You. In Jesus' name, AMEN.

Family Activity:

Go see a Christmas Carol or the Nutcracker at a local theater. Many high schools or community theaters will present these or others plays and events for little or no cost. Check your local newspapers for dates and times. Invite grandparents and extended family to join you. If local drama doesn't interest your family, go see a Christmas movie at the movie theater.

Stress-free tip:

Do you need to add anyone to your gift list? Don't forget teachers, neighbors, hair stylists, baby sitters, and other people who have done a service for you. These gifts don't have to be pricey--a gift from the oven is an inexpensive gift from the heart!

Recipe:

Vanilla Pecan Crescents

1 cup powdered sugar, divided
2 sticks butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 1/2 cups flour
1 1/4 cups quick oats
1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped

Preheat oven 350 degrees. Cream 1/2 cup sugar into the butter then add the salt and vanilla, blending well. Next add the flour, oats, and nuts and blend thoroughly. Place dough by the tablespoonful on ungreased cookie sheet. Shape into crescents. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove from pans and sprinkle remaining powdered sugar over the warm crescent cookies.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, Enjoy.