Original artwork by Michelle Burkholder
“Christmas Blessing from Mary”
Michelle Burkholder serves as the associate pastor of Hyattsville (Maryland) Mennonite Church and is a practicing visual artist.
Joanna Harader serves as pastor of Peace Mennonite Church in Lawrence, Kansas.
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Following is an excerpt, from “Expecting Emmanuel” by Joanna Harader.
Published by Herald Press, an imprint of MennoMedia.
In all that God calls you to do and to be,
may you have courage
to say yes to the mystery.
In times of excitement, grief, joy and fear,
may you have loved ones
to offer companionship and blessing.
In the labor of creation,
may you be strong,
may you be flexible,
may you know joy.
May you, beloved child,
ponder deeply each divine message you hear,
whether from angel or shepherd.
May you ponder and treasure
every gift you receive
from the holy hand of God.
(c) 2022 by Joanna Harader.
Reprinted with permission.