Christmas

Well, it's Christmas morning, and my parents are both down with a stomach flu virus as well as my little sister (to add to our already hard circumstances!). So, afew minutes ago, I was lying in my bed feeling sorry for myself, when it occurred to me what an awesome opportunity this was to truly focus on Jesus on Christmas. I have unopened gifts under the tree right now, and the weird thing is, I really don't even care. When I'm done writing this, I'm going to do my devotions, and read the Christmas story in Luke.
Every time something small (or big) like this happens, I can always hear God saying, "Olivia! Wake up! Can't you see this is your opportunity to come closer to me? I've given you the privilege of having no one but me to lean on in this moment, and I want so badly for you to see that this is beautiful."
I don't know that we're even going to have Christmas today. My little brother, Ethan, is being so patient. He's given so much effort to be good and he hasn't asked to open a gift once!
I am so thankful to be able to have alone time with Jesus. Right here. Right now. To come closer to Him through what seems like a terrible day, and prepare my heart for the tougher ones ahead. I love how God can turn depressing situations into a total blessing. And I haven't even began to see all He can do.
Job 26:12-14
12 By his power he churned up the sea;
by his wisdom he cut Rahab to pieces.

13 By his breath the skies became fair;
his hand pierced the gliding serpent.

14 And these are but the outer fringe of his works;
how faint the whisper we hear of him!
Who then can understand the thunder of his power?"