I don’t know about you, but this time of the year is way too busy with a wide range of activities. There is all of the “church” stuff. Creating special Advent worship services, besides the administrative duties. On top of that are family, friends and other social gatherings that take time and energy.
Last week I was feeling a bit overwhelmed and took a couple of days to go up to our cabin.
For me, it was the best time ever. No cabin work to do except to keep the wood stove going, and getting water from the well. Other than that, I had time to read, write, and reflect on my life, our church, and what we are doing.
I went for two walks a day around “Timbercrest” (our six lot development) . The temperature was brisk, (single digits to twenties), but the evenings were clear, and the moon was getting full. For me, there is nothing quite like going for a walk through the woods on a clear, crisp night, with a bright moon overhead, and snow that crunches under my feet.
It was what I needed to regain perspective on life, on ministry, and how I view my gifts as well as the spiritual gifts present at RHPC…
Our culture seems to be in a race toward “gift day.” Most people refer to it as “Christmas” but I’m not sure they really understand the great gift that God gave to us in the tiny baby born to Mary and Joseph. And maybe it’s only important for those of us in the church.
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Knowing that story certainly doesn’t make us any better than anyone else, but I hope that story, and “the gift” given to humanity that night, helps those of us who are in the church to reflect a bit on why we do what we do. Why we give what we give, and how can we bring real joy to people around us who are hurting, grieving and discouraged.
As I reflect on “getting ready for Christmas” I hope that the joy and wonder experienced by the shepherds that first Christmas shows up in my face, and in my life.
How about you? How are you getting ready for Christmas? Is there a smile on your face, and a song in your heart? I hope so.
Grace and Peace,
PK