Changing up for the format on this one for the week of Christmas. A special episode for end of the year encouragement and to wish a Merry Christmas to all the moms. This episode is shorter than our normal Wire Talks, and that’s perfect since it’s a busy week for many people. Listen to today’s episode to hear a Holiday Special: Encouragement for Moms!

Question 1: What are your prayers for the moms who are listening as they get ready to enter into the last couple of weeks of the year?

Karen’s Answer: My prayers for the moms is that they would enjoy the holiday break with their children and not put too much pressure on themselves as a mom. Just enjoy.  I pray they will take a few moments to sit and reflect on 2016, go through their pictures, posts on Facebook or Instagram and thank God for all the great memories they have had.  Even in the tough times, there is something to be grateful for, even if it’s just that you survived or you ARE surviving.  And lastly, that they will head into 2017 knowing that their heavenly father is FOR them, not against them and He loves them more than anything.

Question 2: What is one thing you want every mom to know about themselves this week?

Karen’s Answer: They are dearly loved! They are doing a great job as a mom, even when they don’t feel like it.  It is a hard job! Don’t give up.

Question 3: Do you have any words of encouragement for moms who are having a hard time over the holidays season either because of stressful circumstances, grieving a loved one, etc?

Karen’s Answer: There is a lot of joy during the holidays.  But, there can also be a lot of sadness, maybe you have a loved one that is sick, and this will be your last Christmas together, or maybe you’ve already lost someone and they were not here with you this Christmas. That brings sadness and Christmas will not change that. Life is seasonal. There are times of joy, sadness, laughter, tears, and it is all important. If you are in a season of joy, enjoy it.  Soak it in, if you are in a season of sadness, remember it will not last forever. Grieve your loved one, or whatever is lost.  The main thing for all of us to remember is to look around, and love on others.  If you know a single mom that will be celebrating by themselves, set a few extra plates at your table. If you know a family that cannot buy gifts this year, give some of your extra to this family.  We can all love on others regardless where we are in life.

Question 4: What are some Bible verses that you love to read this time of the year?

Karen’s Answer: Luke 2:19, “But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” I love this verse, to think what all must have gone through this young mom’s heart and mind. I cannot imagine! I feel like we should follow Mary’s lead, and treasure up all these things.

Question 5 : What is one thing you want every mom to know about God this week?

God loves you, no matter where you are, what you’ve done, or how far you are running away from Him, He loves you!