On that first Christmas, the shepherds saw for themselves that what the angels told them was true. They found the baby exactly as the angels said they would.

And their response?

Bubbling over with joy and wonder, they went out and shared the news with whomever would listen.

And Mary’s response?

She held her wonder and joy close. The Bible tells us she pondered everything in her heart.

Before we can share the words we have on our heart to share, we must know they’re true. (In the case of fiction, there is rich truth woven into the best stories.)

There’s nothing quite like a shiny new idea, is there? Sometimes, we just can’t help sharing it. Plus, it fuels our excitement when we share it with those who cheer us on.

But like it says in Ecclesiastes, there is a time for everything. And sometimes, we ought to cherish, contemplate, and pray over those wondrous things we’re becoming aware of.

So, as we say goodbye to 2022 and look to what 2023 may hold, let’s keep our eyes and ears open to new ideas (they won’t likely be delivered by a sky full of angels), wisely dwell on the truths we’re learning, contemplate them, pray over them, and, when the time is right, share them with others.

May your Christmas overflow with joy and wonder.

And may the year ahead overflow with countless new ideas and writing projects that will encourage, entertain, and excite your readers.

Merry Christmas and the Blessed of New Years!