The service department called late on a Friday afternoon with the news that my 2001 Cabrio needed $2500 worth of repairs and had two oil leaks, one of which was serious enough that my engine could blow at any minute. OK, it was just a car -- but I'll confess that I shed some tears. That car got me through 133,995 miles.

It got me to Cleveland and Disciples Christian Church. For that trip -- and many others through the years -- I am grateful.

So, I'm driving a black VW Jetta now -- having said good-bye to that cute little green convertible -- and bracing myself for making car payments again after several years without them. With only 500 miles on it so far, I am already thoroughly enjoying the radio. Car radios have changed since 2001! I now have more stations than I can ever listen to on satellite, and a bright LED screen on the dash that tells me exactly what's playing.

My favorite stations right now are the three I've found that play Christmas music. One is all sacred music all the time. Another is pop -- and for all the Dogs barking Jingle Bells and Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer selections, there are some lovely pieces too. And the third? It's a station that is playing French Christmas music. Some of the melodies are familiar no matter the language. Others are brand new to me and a challenge to see if I can translate at least the titles if not the lyrics from my very rusty French.

And then there are those that bring back elementary school French class memories: Il est ne le divin Enfant. Un flambeau, Jeanette, Isabella. I remember Mmes Ketterman and Rababa -- my French teachers -- teaching us, singing with us. And, I'm remembering a very cute, tall, shy red-headed boy learning them with me.

Who knew he'd ever walk back into my life to sit next to me in that little black Jetta. I am blessed.














Blessings,

Pastor Kris



A suggestion to guide your prayers today: pray for teachers -- for their abilities and their dedication, for rest and relaxation over Christmas break, and for their spirits.