It's the most wonderful time of the year. There is a chill in the air, hot drinks in people's hands and children making their lists of things that they hope to get from dear old Saint Nick. There is incredible beauty and innocence in this simple act. I personally think that it is one of the best things to watch at Christmas time: the hope in a children's eyes as they write out and drop their letters into the mail box. As I watch them, I am amazed at their ability to put aside the fears and worries that they have and instead hope for a wonderful Christmas Day. I look to myself, the worries and fear that I have for our violent, chaotic world, and I realize that I want to be filled with hope, joy and love, instead of fear, stress and worry. Amy Grant's "Grown-Up Christmas List" gives me inspiration to do that.

Here, Amy wishes for "no more lives torn apart. That wars would never start. Time would heal all hearts. Everyone would have a friend. Right would always win. And love would never end [...] Not for myself, but for a world in need." She wishes for love and joy for everyone. This is my wish this season. I wish that everyone, all around the world would put away their worry, fear, stress and selfishness. Spend time with family and friends. Hold them close, and let them know that they are loved. Pray for the world that is experiencing so much violence and chaos. Pray that the world would end its wars and skirmishes. That the world would experience peace and rest. Wish for hope, love and joy this season. It lasts so much longer and is so much more beautiful than fear and worry.