No one can say they’ve seen the face of God, but if you’ve seen an act of love, you know exactly what He looks like. Scripture tells us plainly: God is love. And every time we choose love over hate, humility over pride, generosity over selfishness, and forgiveness over resentment, we give the world a glimpse of Him.
That’s the heart of Christmas.
In the middle of lights, lists, traditions, and to-dos, it’s easy to forget that Christmas isn’t just a season; it’s a story. A story of God’s ultimate act of love. He didn’t send a sign or a symbol. He sent Himself. Wrapped in flesh. Placed in a manger. Given freely to a world that desperately needed hope.
Jesus didn’t arrive with power and prestige. He came in humility, bringing peace to the weary, hope to the broken, and light into dark places. Through Him, we learn that love isn’t just something we feel; it’s something we live.
When we choose love, especially when it’s inconvenient, undeserved, or unseen, we reflect the heart of God. When we extend grace, show compassion, slow down to listen, or give without expecting anything in return, we continue the Christmas story in real time.
This season, maybe the greatest gift we can offer isn’t found under a tree, but in how we show up for one another. A kind word. A softened heart. A forgiven offense. A generous spirit. These are the moments where love becomes visible.
Christmas reminds us that love has a name, and His name is Jesus.
So as we celebrate, let’s get back to the heart of it all. Let’s choose love boldly, live it daily, and share it freely. Because every act of love points back to the One who loved us first, and that is truly something worth celebrating!
There’s something about Miami Beach that always resets me. Maybe it’s the sunshine. Maybe it’s the waves. Maybe it’s the way good food just hits different when you’re on vacation celebrating someone you love. Whatever it is, Miami remains one of my foodie happy places, and this month’s trip reminded me exactly why.
Between a little rest, a little reflection, and a whole lot of eating, I discovered three spots worth talking about—two longtime favorites and one brand-new love that officially has me in a chokehold. Let’s get into it.
A New Favorite: Sazon Cubano
How did I come to Miami all these years and not know about Sazon Cubano? This was my first time stepping into this colorful, authentic Cuban spot for lunch, and let me tell you—I was instantly mad at myself for not coming sooner.
The vibe is classic Miami meets abuela’s kitchen: warm, lively, and filled with the aroma of garlic, citrus, and love. I ordered the seafood paella, the churrasco (marinated skirt steak grilled to perfection), and a classic mojito. I loved every single thing. The paella was loaded, flavorful, and comforting. The churrasco was tender, juicy, and seasoned just right. And that mojito? Exactly what a mojito should be: crisp, bright, and absolutely refreshing.
Sazon Cubano is officially on my “must return for dinner + live music” list. 10/10 would recommend.
The Letdown: Front Porch Café
Whew… this one hurt a little.
Front Porch Café used to be one of my Miami staples…the kind of place with a benedict you dream about long after vacation ends. So imagine my disappointment when I walked in and realized the magic was gone.
They’ve moved several blocks down Ocean Drive into a smaller location, and unfortunately, the quality went with the square footage. I ordered the crab cake benedict I once loved, only to receive lightly seasoned poached eggs perched on tiny crab cakes that were overcooked and underseasoned… with no English muffin. Where do they do that? My partner’s chicken and waffles were better – at least the bacon was cooked perfectly – but the chicken was not crispy. The audacity.
The service was slow, the energy was off, and even the bathrooms looked run-down. It just wasn’t the Front Porch I remembered, and that’s never fun to say about a place that once brought you joy.
Ending Strong: Call Me Gaby
Thankfully, Miami never lets me leave on a sad culinary note, and Call Me Gaby came through like a champ for my partner’s birthday dinner.
I love the eccentric decorAnd the soft lighting was a vibe
This restaurant remains one of the most charming, romantic spots in South Beach. Perfect for date nights, girls’ nights, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something delicious and beautifully done.
We ordered the Rita pizza, and let me just say: this might be one of the freshest, most flavorful pizzas I’ve ever had in my life. Truffle burrata, bosco mushrooms, sautéed bell peppers, prosciutto di Parma, shaved parmesan… it was luxurious, indulgent, and worth every bite.
Love how they provide the check in a Campbell’s soup can
We also tried the clam linguine (not as amazing as last time but still solid), the pappardelle bolognese (which we switched to bucatini), and a side of perfectly cooked asparagus. Chef’s kisses were in full effect.
Final Bite
Miami Beach never disappoints, even when one meal does. This trip reminded me of the joy of discovering new favorites, revisiting old ones, and savoring every moment in between. From mojitos to mushrooms to memories with my favorite people, it was exactly the reset I needed.
I often think about how different my life might look had I made different choices. If I’d said yes to that opportunity. If I’d held on instead of letting go. If I’d chosen courage instead of comfort, or silence instead of speaking up. Like many of us, I replay the “what-ifs” and wonder how life would’ve unfolded had I taken a different path.
But Ecclesiastes 11:5 stops me in my tracks. It reminds me that I cannot possibly know the work of God. How He weaves every decision, detour, and delay into something meaningful. There’s no alternate version of my life where I can see what He would have allowed or withheld, because every scenario would still be filtered through His sovereign hand.
Even in seasons where I truly believed I made wise, Spirit-led choices, life didn’t always reward me with ease. Some decisions led to heartbreak, disappointment, or moments that felt unfair. And yet, time after time, I’ve watched God redeem the very things that once left me in tears. What felt like loss eventually revealed itself as protection. What looked like failure was actually preparation.
Romans 8:28 says that God uses everything for our good, but for years I saw that verse through the lens of my own definition of “good.” I thought it meant resolution, restoration, or reward. But Ecclesiastes helps me see that God’s good often looks nothing like what I would have chosen. His good might come through pruning instead of prosperity, stillness instead of success, or heartbreak that humbles instead of happiness that flatters.
And yet, His version of good is the only one that matters because His good leads to growth, character, and dependence on Him. The mystery is that even when I don’t understand His process, I can trust His purpose.
So these days, I’m learning to release the “what-ifs” and rest in the wonder. I may not know the path of the wind or the details of His plan, but I know the Maker. And for me, that’s enough.
Filters. They’re everywhere. In our social media-driven culture, they’ve become a standard. For the uninitiated, filters are those features on apps that can transform a photo in seconds, brightening your smile and smoothing your skin to adding lashes you never had.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not here to shame anybody. I’ve used them too. Sometimes a little extra light is just what a photo needs. But what got me thinking (and writing) is how filters have moved beyond the screen. They’ve crept into our real lives. Offline, we’ve begun “filtering” and altering parts of ourselves to get more approval, more attention, more “likes.”
Here’s the truth: every one of us has something we’re working through. A weakness or a habit we’d rather break. A part of our story that doesn’t feel so pretty. But those unpolished parts don’t make us less than; they make us human. And still, Ephesians 2:10 declares we are God’s masterpiece. Imagine what would shift if we truly lived as though we believed that we’re already art, already beautiful, already crafted with intention by the Creator of the universe. Would we really need filters?
The creators of filters probably just wanted to give people a fun tool. And sure, for some, that’s all it is…fun. But for many, it’s become a way of life. We’ve learned that the filtered version of ourselves gets more attention, so we keep leading with that. And honestly? I’ve been there too. I can’t tell you when I picked up the habit of people-pleasing, but at some point, I realized I was living a filtered life for likes. Saying things that weren’t really me. Agreeing when I should’ve spoken up. Smiling when I wanted to cry. All for approval.
But then I was reminded of Paul’s words in Galatians 1:10: “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? … If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” That verse hit me like a mirror check. My mission isn’t to perfect my filters; it’s to please God.
So I’ve started practicing life unfiltered. Working on the things I can change and developing the areas where I can grow. And most importantly, learning to celebrate the quirks that are simply God’s fingerprints.
Maybe it’s time we all ask: are my filters fun, or are they keeping me from living authentically as God’s masterpiece?
Life has a way of surprising us. One day everything feels secure, and the next an unexpected challenge shows up on our doorstep. Maybe it’s a financial setback, a sudden health concern, or a relationship that shifts in ways we didn’t anticipate. Our natural instinct is often to cry out, “Lord, why are you allowing this to happen to me? What did I do to deserve this?” or if you’re anything like me, simply “Why, Lord?”
But what if we looked at it differently? What if the very challenges that shake us are the ones God is using to strengthen us? When we change our perspective, moments of struggle become opportunities to lean in, trust deeper, and witness God’s provision in action.
God has promised to provide for all of our needs. Not just the easy ones, but the ones that test the very core of our faith. Philippians 4:19 reminds us: “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” The trials we face are not punishments, but tests designed to reveal whether we truly believe He is who He says He is—our Provider, our Sustainer, our Father, and most importantly, our Savior.
When you find yourself asking why, pause and shift the question to what. Instead of “Why me?” try asking, “What is God teaching me about His goodness right now?” That shift unlocks peace. It silences fear and reminds us that even in the valley seasons, we are never without provision.
Think back on your own life. How many times has God come through when you weren’t sure how it would work out? Each testimony is a marker of His faithfulness. And if He provided then, you can rest assured, He will provide now and forever more. His track record is unmatched.
So the next time an unexpected challenge arises, remember this truth: it’s not the end of your story. It’s another opportunity for God to show that He is still faithful, still good, and still providing…just as He always has.
There’s something sacred about a meal that makes you pause mid-bite… not because you’re full, but because you’re floored. That’s exactly what happened during a recent dinner at Ossobuco Steakhouse in Miami, where indulgence meets intention, and every dish feels like a love letter to your senses.
A little miscommunication had them thinking it was my bdayThat’s ok because I celebrate my milestone bdays all year 🙂
Before I get fully into the food, let me first mention that this delightful restaurant is nestled in my favorite neighborhood of the Miami region (outside of the beach, of course), Wynwood. It is charming, artsy, and full of dope restaurants. During a recent last-minute and fully necessary getaway to Miami Beach, I ventured away from my trusty faves in the area for a night, and needless to say…I now have a new addition to the rotation.
From the very first bite, this meal had a message…and y’all know I love when life speaks through the little things.
Let’s start at the beginning: wild mushrooms sautéed to perfection, with a perfectly poached egg atop practically winked at me and welcomed me to the palate-pleasing party. And just when I thought it couldn’t get any more luxurious, the brioche croutons sprinkled throughout offered a buttery contrast that was absolutely divine.
Before mixingAfter mixing
Then came the main event: a juicy, 16 oz prime New York strip steak, grilled just right, served with a delightful chimichurri sauce that had the nerve to be both bold and balanced. Every bite was seasoned just right, tender, and full of “this is what I came for” energy. Because after all, we were at a steakhouse.
Perfection on a plateThe torch to melt the garlic butter at the table was a nice touch…
As I took my first bite of the wagyu fat potatoes, I promptly patted myself on the back for choosing the perfect accompaniment to that gorgeous piece of meat.Crispy on the outside, buttery-soft on the inside, these potatoes definitely deserved their own praise report.
Here’s what struck me: this meal wasn’t just good. It was a moment. A reminder that even in the whirlwind of daily responsibilities, there is joy to be found in slowing down and savoring. Not just food…but conversations, atmosphere, laughter, and the art of being fully present in the midst of greatness.
So if you ever find yourself in Miami, treat yourself. Book the table. Order the mushrooms. Don’t skip the steak. And let the wagyu potatoes minister to your soul. You deserve heaven right here on earth.
Remember when we talked about choosing joy? That deep, unshakeable kind that doesn’t flinch when life acts up? Let’s take it a step further—because choosing joy is one thing, keeping it is another.
Joy isn’t fragile, but it does need care. The world will throw shade, noise, chaos, and even hate at you like it’s trying to knock the smile off your face. But here’s the good news: you’ve got the tools to hold on tight.
It’s in the little things—those quiet moments with God, the belly laughs with your people, the breath between the battles where you remember, “Oh yeah, I’ve still got my joy.”
You don’t have to fake it. Just feed it.
Because real joy doesn’t run. It roots. And no matter what comes, it can still rise.
I’ve been thinking more about peace lately. What it means, how to get it, and most importantly, how to keep it. Living in a world that constantly threatens or at least runs counter to it, it’s critical to have a strategy and mechanism by which we protect it.
When I asked the question to myself “what brings me peace” transparently, the first thing I thought of was clarity. I like being clear and understanding beyond a shadow of a doubt where I am and where I’m going. The reality is, we are in control of very little in this world so there will always be things that aren’t clear or we don’t understand. Therefore, if I’m relying on understanding and clarity for my peace, it will always be fleeting and I’ll be in a constant state of anxiety. I want a sustainable, unshakable peace. Is that too much to ask for?
The answer to that question is actually no and here’s why.
If you have accepted God as your father, you serve THE God of peace. That means He is the ultimate source of it.
I’ve found more than anything else, being in and recognizing God’s presence brings me peace. And the beautiful thing about His presence is that you can enter it anytime. Whether through prayer, listening to worship music, reading scripture, or walking in nature, I can immediately access peace. Now that’s sustainable!
Some may say, “easier said than done” or “it’s not as simple as that.” Oh, but it is.
There are many verses in the Bible about peace, but I think this treasure in Philippians chapter four, gets to the heart of our access to it.
He’s given us the roadmap to peace. Immerse yourself in His word. Seek out His wisdom. Be obedient. Follow His example by showing compassion, grace, mercy, forgiveness, and love. That’s where you will find peace. Will everything be right in the world? No, but you’ll be surrounded by the One who offers peace amid the chaos and confusion.
If your peace is disturbed not by the outside, but by what’s within, go to Him in prayer. That same chapter of Philippians also offers instructions to go to Him and tell Him what we need.
If sometimes, you’re like me and you don’t even know what you need, ask God to reveal it to you. Trust He already knows but wants us to come to Him to get it.
Lastly, I believe our peace is connected to our gratitude. In Phil 4:6, it says to tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. When we are grateful, it puts our worries into perspective. Gratitude helps us to trust God, because we acknowledge Him for what He’s already done. And if He’s provided before – whether it’s wisdom, protection, healing, comfort, or a tangible fulfillment of a need – He can do it again.
Seek Him. Follow Him. Obey Him. Trust Him. Thank Him. That is where the peace resides.
We’ve all heard this phrase multiple times, especially those immersed in church culture. I’m a believer, no doubt, but recently I dug a little deeper and pondered what makes this statement so true. PRAYER WORKS.
Did you know that prayer works, not just because God answers in the way we envisioned?
Spoiler alert, I won’t wait until the end of this blog post to get to my main point. Prayer works not because we get what we request. Prayer works because when we pray, we get to build a personal relationship with our Creator and Father regardless of the outcome.
James 4:8 says “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” The best way to draw near to Him is through prayer. When I think about my favorite Bible characters – Joseph, Moses, Sarah, Hannah, Job, David, Mary (any of them) – no matter how flawed or sinful they were, they all had deep relationships with God through prayer. And He blessed them because of their faith.
By the way, being blessed didn’t mean they always got what they wanted when they wanted it. Also, an answered prayer can be no or not yet, and they are just as powerful. Sarah was a senior when she received her yes for a child. Joseph seemed to be on a downward spiral for years before he was elevated to second in command in all of Egypt, which he never requested. Job lost his entire family, all of his wealth, and his good health, despite his obedience and faithfulness to the Lord. Amid all their hardship, God was building their faith in Him through their prayer lives. That, above all, is what blessed them.
Each time David found himself in hot water, which was quite often, He was comforted by His conversations with His father. Sometimes His situation didn’t change. For example, he prayed that God would spare his first son’s life, despite the adulterous relationship that led to his son’s conception. God chose to take that son’s life, but David’s faith in God did not waiver. And God continued to elevate him despite his sins.
Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! John 15:4, 8 (NLT)
This scripture in the book of John perfectly describes how and why prayer works. You may ask, what does it mean to “remain in me”? I believe God is asking us to “remain” in His word (learning and studying Him through scripture), “remain” in His commands (being obedient to the Word), and most importantly, “remain” in His presence (speaking and listening to Him through prayer). When we do these things, we will embody His Word and become more like Him. That is how He “remains in us.”
Ultimately, we are to take our lead from Jesus. Even though Jesus was our Father Himself in human form; even though Jesus was perfect in every way and knew no sin; even though He knew everything that would happen before it happened…He still prayed, constantly. He did it because He knew the power of it, and He wanted to set an example for us.
Whether or not we receive what we request, I want you to know that prayer has great power. It comforts us; it releases us from guilt and shame; it cleanses us; it calms us; it heals us; it strengthens us; it renews and restores us; but above all, it further tethers us to the One who is sovereign over all things.
The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration, but for many, it can also be a time of loneliness, struggle, or pain. As we celebrate the season, it’s important to remember that the love and kindness of Christ are needed more than ever. You never know what someone may be going through, and you might just be the only glimpse of Christ they see.
The Power of Simple Acts of Kindness
In the busy days leading up to Christmas, it’s easy to get caught up in shopping and to-do lists. But let’s not forget the power of simple acts of kindness. A warm smile, a thoughtful word, or a helping hand can make someone feel seen and valued. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus reminds us, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Every act of kindness is an opportunity to serve Him.
Loving Others as Christ Loved Us
The true meaning of Christmas isn’t in gifts or decorations but in the love we show others. Christ came to Earth not for the perfect, but for the broken. He embraced people’s flaws with love, and we are called to do the same. In John 13:34-35, Jesus commands, “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” Loving others—especially those who may be hard to love—is how we reflect Christ’s heart.
This holiday season, many people face pain—whether it’s from loss, financial strain, or personal struggles. By offering love, patience, and understanding, we show them the kindness of Christ. Your love could be the lifeline someone needs to get through tough times.
Being a Light in Someone’s Darkness
We are called to be a light in the world, especially during dark times. In Philippians 2:15, Paul writes, “Shine among them like stars in the sky.” As you encounter people this season, remember that your light may be the only one they see. Reach out to those who might be silently suffering—whether it’s a friend, a coworker, or a neighbor. Offer your presence, your prayers, or simply your ear. In doing so, you reflect the love of Christ in a world that desperately needs it.
The True Gift of the Season
Jesus is the ultimate gift to us—given out of pure love. In 2 Corinthians 9:15, Paul writes, “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” This Christmas, may we all remember that the greatest gift we can give isn’t something wrapped in paper, but the gift of love. When we show kindness to others, we share the season’s true meaning.
Scriptures to Inspire Your Heart:
1 John 4:19 – “We love because He first loved us.”
Matthew 5:14-16 – “You are the light of the world… Let your light shine before others.”
Romans 15:7 – “Accept one another, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.”
Galatians 6:9-10 – “Let us not become weary in doing good… Let us do good to all people.”
This Christmas, let’s be the hands and feet of Jesus. This holiday season I pray that as we reflect on the love Christ has shown us, we let that love overflow to others. We never know when our kindness will be the light someone needs.
Golden Life Musings 