Wanted to share this with all of you.  Today, during our church’s Sunday service, they featured a Tree of Remembrance.  They had a Christmas tree,
with lights only, and red and gold Christmas balls to be added to the tree.
Each of the red balls was in memory of a loved one who had passed away in 2009.  We had submitted the names of Jeannette Knowlton and Edmund Swanson
and there was a ball in each of their names.

Each of the gold balls was in honor of family members serving in the armed forces.  We had submitted the names of Gary Swanson, Jr., Joshua Swanson and
Fancy Goodwin and there was a gold ball in each of their names. 
With the lights dimmed and the orchestra quietly playing carols, each name was called off and family members (Arlene, Chris, Ken, Brad and I) went forward to accept each ball and place it on the tree.  There were over 40 red balls and over 60 gold balls.  Two young men, currently serving and members of our church, were in dress uniform and they handed each ball to
us.

It was a beautiful service and wanted each of you to know that our church
remembered, honored and prayed for our family members this AM.  Just wanted to share that with each of you.

Betty

Christmas in Heaven

I see the countless Christmas trees, around the world below,

With tiny lights, like Heaven’s stars, reflecting on the snow.

The sight is so spectacular, please wipe away the tear,

For I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear,

But the sounds of music can’t compare with the Christmas Choir up here.

I have no words to tell you, the joy their voices bring.

For it is beyond description, to hear the angels sing.

I know how much you miss me, I see the pain inside your heart,

But I am not so far away, we really aren’t apart.

So be happy for me, dear ones, you know I hold you dear,

And be glad I’m spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I sent you each a special gift, from my heavenly home above,

I sent you each a memory of my undying love.

After all, love is a gift more precious than pure gold,

It was always more important in the stories Jesus told.

Please love and keep each other, as my Father said to do,

For I can’t count the blessing or love He has for each of you.

So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away that tear.

Remember, I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.