The last few days we have experienced a very small amount of snow. Each day by mid morning the dusting of snow has melted much to the chagrin of Ephraim and Carson. Today Ephraim told someone, "I love snow. It means that Christmas is almost here".
Wow, that is a wake up call. We are celebrating Advent in our home in a couple of different ways. We have a Advent calendar that Omi gave the boys and we have a paper chain that we take a link off everyday which has a scripture verse for us to read. (As I write, I realize we neglected to do both of those tonight. This makes me sad). Whether we are ready or not, Christmas is coming.
I have been purchasing gifts here and there for my family. A few things laying up in my guest bedroom suite waiting to be sorted through and wrapped. I was most happy with the purchase I made last night at Target. I chose two Knight in Shining Armor costumes complete with swords for the boys. Normally I shy away from anything with even a hint of combat. But, I was drawn to these costumes, because we are using a devotion Bible with the boys that is titled "God's Mighty Warrior Devotional Bible" by Sheila Walsh. I am looking forward to talking to the boys about each piece in the 5 piece set and comparing them to the Armor of God. Especially the "sword of the Spirit which is the WORD of God" (Ephesians 6:10-18). Having these few gifts, doesn't complete my list and then there will be the task of wrapping them.
I bought my Christmas cards last year on clearance, (I won't lie to you). I've had these cards for almost a year now, and yet, they lay unwritten, unaddressed in the basement. I thought I was getting a jump on things a week or so ago, when I proudly announced on my facebook page that I was working on my Christmas card. I have a semi-complete picture collage in my computer. I have a theme and a Bible verse, but that is it. No Christmas note/letter has been written. Yet, here I am writing my blog. Oh why oh why don't I do something more productive with my time.
I seem to be neglecting the most important thing about Advent. Preparing my heart. Yes, I have been doing my Bible Study and we have except for tonight done our Advent activities, but my heart has not been in the right place. I am feeling overwhelmed by the noise of Christmas. Instead of the sweet call of the Baby Jesus. Yes, I will eventually want to get my Christmas cards out and I will want to finish my shopping and wrapping, but I must take time to be with my Savior first. To remember what is important and to put aside that which gets in the way of time with Him. So, I will spell check this post and then I am going to go immerse myself in God's Word. I am also looking forward to going to the "Advent Tea" at my sister's church in Munster this Saturday. A time to reflect and connect.
2 comments:
Looking forward to your visit.
Our family is enjoying using mom's/GM's metal Advent wreath. I had it fixed because parts of it were falling off.
We are using devotions from Lutheran Layman's League online devotions. My kids are older though. It is good to put your heart in the right place at this time.... to easy to get side tracked.
...too
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