Father Harmuth and his four-legged companion Noel served as our daughter’s chaplains at the Episcopal School of Dallas (ESD).

Earlier this year, The Reverend Canon Michael Harmuth celebrated his 50th anniversary of ordination.

Sorting through files, I discovered a message from Father Harmuth that he shared in May 2000. I’m sharing it with you today…just in time for Christmas.

I asked God to grant me patience. God said, “No. Patience is a by-product of tribulations; it isn’t granted, it is earned.”

I asked God to give me happiness. God said, “No. I give you blessings. Happiness is up to you.”

I asked God to spare me pain. God said, “No. Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me.”

I asked God to make my spirit grow.  God said, “No. You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful.”

I asked for all the things that I might enjoy in life. God said, “No. I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things.”

I asked God to help me love others, as much as God loves me.

God said, “Ahhhh., finally you have the idea.”

Merry Christmas.