Sunday, December 4, 2011

Advent Season

Second Sunday of Advent Gospel Reading
"John the baptizer was clothed with camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey." Mark 1:6

Happy Advent Season!
I hope this finds you all enjoying the season and not getting too stressed out and worried about the nonsense that tends to take over us all! This morning I read something very powerful and had to share it with others.

"The attraction of John the Baptist is mysterious.  People flocked to him, not to be flattered but to be told the truth.  They listened because of what they saw, a man who was indifferent to the world's prizes, a man of minimal needs, who could not be bought by pleasures, comforts, or money, but was passionate about God." Sacred Space

"Show me, Lord, what there is about my life that takes from the value of my words and makes me less convincing." Sacred Space

I love where it says that John the Baptist was a man who didn't care about the world's prizes and couldn't be bought by pleasures, comforts, or money.  I am guilty as sin about "being bought" by the material things throughout the advent season that takes a hold of my heart and rules my thoughts instead of being focused on Christ.  Can we, as mothers, try to be different this advent season and be more like John the Baptist, speaking truth and not being conformed to the "norm" of society? I am going to challenge my self starting today on this task.  When people ask if we are surviving the season, smile and say "yes, we are enjoying every minute as we prepare our hearts for Jesus!" Or instead of thinking we need to get the perfect gifts for our children or loved one, just keep it simple and fun and don't spend too much of your precious time searching.  I know money is tight with the majority of people, so why spend more than you have? There is absolute no need for this nonsense.  This could be a good lesson for our children (and for us) about teaching on hard times and doing with less.  Do something concrete with your family such as gathering at night for lighting of the advent wreath and prayer.  We are starting new traditions at my house and the kids are learning more about what the season is truly all about.  These are just a few ways we can be more like John the Baptist in preparing our hearts for the coming of Jesus and standing for truth.  As mothers, we can help change all of the nonsense that takes place in just four short weeks, one home at a time.  In return, something amazing will happen in the walls of our home. In doing this, somehow our children will be happier and our hearts will be at peace.  This is called GRACE from Heaven.....the most perfect gift we can receive daily if we keep our hearts focused on eternity and not the silly things of this world. So start the challenge today and see the transfiguration of your heart, home and family this Christmas!

Blessings to you and your family as we prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus!