I wondered how to update all of you who prayed for Mur and Me over the last two years, and now me, after Mur entered her new home in heaven. I’ve remembered the thousands of embraces/hugs Mur and I enjoyed over the 64 years we knew each other, especially after I got home from extended trips overseas. After Mur’s health started declining those hugs became increasingly special. She started having a hard time getting out of bed and on her feet. I could coax her to get out of bed and stand, even if only for a moment, so we could hug. Toward the end I would have to lean over and hug her while she was lying in bed. The last time, I could only lean over and kiss her, tell her I loved her and then as she closed her eyes sing a couple of familiar hymns. Now, three months later I’m reminded of the popular Christian song, “I can only imagine…” where the writer listed some possibilities of what we might experience when arriving in heaven. Then I received a painting of being embraced, maybe lifted off her feet, and overjoyed by Jesus’ loving squeeze. It was a comfort to me and encouraged me to “press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me” (Philippians 3:12). I know that Jesus is not ashamed to call us his brothers or sisters (Hebrews 2:11) and God is not ashamed to be called our God, for he has prepared a place for us (Hebrews 11:16). That is what our blessed hope is all about. AND THAT IS WHY JESUS CHRIST CAME. Be sure to make time to praise and worship HIM this Christmas.