Spread Christmas Cheer

My brother-in-law's grandmother, Betty, is fighting cancer this Christmas. If you would ask her how she is doing she would tell you how God has blessed her this week, without one complaint. I have asked Becca if I could share Betty's testimony:

Betty and Austin Kersey have been pillars of faith and an example of Christ's love to their family for decades. Betty loves God and loves others. She is a prayer warrior. When my husband turned his back on God, in his early twenties, Betty went to her knees. Josh had stepped so far into sin, she finally had to tell him he was no longer welcome in her home. She would be there once he made some changes in the right direction. That was the wake-up call he needed to hear. Grandma is a woman of ultimate grace and forgiveness. Josh knew he had disappointed his Grandmother but ultimately he sinned against God. The family jokes that Grandma has a "red phone" connection straight to God. She calls and He listens. We know that in reality, we all have direct "red phones" to our Lord and Savior. "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." Hebrews 4:16 (NIV)

Grandma lives in California and is surrounded by a supportive and loving family. When I talk to her about her treatment and how she is feeling, she only has praise to give. I cry when I think of her sweet and loving spirit. In the midst of everything she is going trough, she would rather hear my news and lift me up in prayer than dwell on her circumstances.

A month ago I spoke with Grandma and she had requested some cards. Her letter came a week or so later. The dear letter explained that her original request was more of an offer of ideas. Though she would love a few cards to share with others, she has been reflecting on how the greeting card industry doesn't have too many cards to those ill people who may not "get better soon". She says, "the cards in the stores "don't cut it" most of the time for serious ill people who may not "get well soon" or not at all - this should be remembered in any greeting card."

Becca and I have been sending Betty some cards to give to other people who are suffering from illnesses who may not "get well soon." In sending her some cards to give to others, we will be encouraging her at the same time. I am asking as you create your Christmas cards, design team cards, or other cards that you would think of Betty and her new friends she has found during treatment. Could you help her spread Christ's love? If you would like to send a card (blank inside) to Betty, email me so I can get her address to you at createoften@hotmail.com.

The most important thing to remember, as we make cards, is to not only enjoy the creative process but pray over the recipient of the card. God knows every detail of what they are going through, even though we may not. Trust that He knows and He cares!