I’m not talking about a “candy-gram”, or the glam gal who pops out of a birthday cake. I could go with the cast member (Disney) idea. If you’re employed at the “Happiest Place on Earth”, you are a cast member – even if you’re flipping burgers. Your uniform is a costume. Of course, the familiar characters are present in the parks, and you can stand in line (of course) to get the photo, and a hug. Cast member/characters are trained to never be the one who stops the hug. Imagine what a gift that is for the child, like a dream come true.

Costumed gifts are also blessings in disguise. Angel visitations (yes, they are real), “God-winks”, unexpected situations. I know a woman who gave thanks for falling. Why, you may ask (I did). When the EMT’s came and took her vitals, they were concerned more than usual about her heart rate. An overnight visit in the hospital confirmed that she had a slight arrythmia. She might have died from a sudden heart attack. Now she can smile and rejoice about God’s mercy, His blessing in disguise. A costumed gift. We can be grateful even in suffering. God knows where our journey takes us. His  unconditional love is assured at all times and in all places. Give thanks, dear blog reader!

Pastor Art