December 2
The word Advent means “coming.” It is a time to slow down, be quiet and meditate about the real meaning of Christmas. The four weeks before Christmas are a time to prepare our hearts and our lives as we wait for the coming of Jesus. We focus on the promise that God made to his people and how that promise was fulfilled in Jesus.
We live in an "instant" society where we have become accustomed to waiting for nothing. Waiting requires patience. Patience is a concept that is hard for many people to grasp. I have to admit that I need to remind myself to be patient from time to time. When we have patience we usually gain compassion. Holding a door for someone, helping someone put their groceries into their car, giving a neighbor that can no longer drive a ride to church, making the time to visit a shut in; there are many ways to show compassion. It is even harder to find the time during the busy Christmas season.
This year take a step back from the hustle and bustle and try to bring Christ into your Christmas. Not just physically within the walls of St. Paul's, but also beyond.
Think of these 6 questions: How much compassion do I have? How much of a difference am I making in this world? Do I encourage people? Do I share Christ like I should? Do I care for people's needs? Am I a blessing to others?
We live in an "instant" society where we have become accustomed to waiting for nothing. Waiting requires patience. Patience is a concept that is hard for many people to grasp. I have to admit that I need to remind myself to be patient from time to time. When we have patience we usually gain compassion. Holding a door for someone, helping someone put their groceries into their car, giving a neighbor that can no longer drive a ride to church, making the time to visit a shut in; there are many ways to show compassion. It is even harder to find the time during the busy Christmas season.
This year take a step back from the hustle and bustle and try to bring Christ into your Christmas. Not just physically within the walls of St. Paul's, but also beyond.
Think of these 6 questions: How much compassion do I have? How much of a difference am I making in this world? Do I encourage people? Do I share Christ like I should? Do I care for people's needs? Am I a blessing to others?
"And of some have compassion, making a difference"
Jude 1:22
Kathy Lafland