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Last night my family and I lit the second candle on our advent wreath. The family study we are doing is discussing faith and preparation in week two. Two different words and yet, I believe they belong together. In preparation for our future… the future of our family, the future of our relationships and the future of our world we MUST have faith. Without faith we are doomed to despair and fear.
This is the first year that I have actually seen my son counting down to Christmas by himself. And to be honest I am not all that certain what exactly he is counting down to because he knows our finances are tight this year but, maybe it is just the anticipation of having a break from school or getting a chance to hangout with family that will be visiting from out-of-town. Either way seeing his excitement and anticipation has me longing for more faith.
Faith that one day I will not be that grouchy, crabby, yelling wife and mom.
Faith that one day grace will be easier for me.
Faith that one day I will be capable of not being plagued with insecurities.
Faith that one day I will learn to rest and be still in the midst of chaos.
Faith that one day my dreams will come true.
As we prepare for Christmas in our home things have been simpler this year. Things has been calm and quiet. There are moments when I long to have more to spend but, I know that is not what the season is really about. The manger sits in our bay window simple and alone. The two small trees on either side have no decorations just simple white lights. Above our fireplace our stocking hang along with a book wreath with twenty-five Disney stories for counting down to Christmas.
The simplicity makes me long for a quiet retreat from all the spending and expectations of the holiday. There is a part of me that wants to say no gifts this year but, I know it is about giving. I just wonder what life would be like if we really did live simpler and less chaotic? What would it really be like if we didn’t just say less is more but we actually lived it everyday?
As I prepare my heart for this time of year I am thankful for faith. I am thankful for my family. I am thankful for my friends. I am thankful for a secure job. I am thankful I get to go to school. And, I am thankful for being able to live a little piece of my dream here on the internet encouraging you.
What are you preparing for in this season of life?
What are you anticipating or hoping for Christmas?
Are you struggling with faith?
You don’t have to wait for the End. I am, right now, Resurrection and Life. The one who believes in me, even though he or she dies, will live. And everyone who lives believing in me does not ultimately die at all. Do you believe this? John 11:25 MSG
Father God please give us faith, hope and love. Guide us during this season to focus on You and not the things of this world. Give us peace and a time of rest and reflection. Help us to shine Your light in this broken world. Amen.
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