Rich

Here we are again...one more week until Thanksgiving. The most wonderful time of the year for sure. I try to honor each holiday with intention, but since reading Ann Voskamp's One Thousand Gifts at least three times in the last five years or so - every day is Thanksgiving. Minus the turkey and pies.

So how does one make it special when already in the habit of deliberate daily giving thanks? I have journals full of lists of praise for provisions and experiences gifted by God. What else?

Prayer, Bible study, and a good book should give me what I'm looking for.

Philippians 4:19 "My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of God."

Perhaps Philippians' "riches of God" coupled with Ephesians 1:3-10, God has "blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ..."

What are the spiritual riches, eternal and unseen that are more valuable than the richest objects or experiences on earth? A new list!

To start:

He chose me
to be holy and blameless in His sight
In love, He adopted me into His family
He has freely given me abundant grace
In Him I have redemption through His blood (the only way to become right with God),
forgiveness of sin
in accordance with the riches of God's grace
that He lavished on us
Love
Joy
Peace
Christ's righteousness now mine
Hope for heaven
Intimacy with God
Good works prepared to fulfill my purpose

I'm rich! Rich in all the above (which is just scratching the surface).

Let's have some fun with this. What else am I rich in?

Currently-

snowflakes
trees - covered in snow
mountains
icicles
I'm rich in nature!

Friends who
love me and my family
ask hard questions
encourage and tell truth
sharpen me
who give up a Saturday morning
to shower my engaged daughter with gifts and marital advice
and come early
and bring food
and set up
and stay late
and clean up
I'm rich in friends!

praying parents
faithful, loving husband
grown kids who share with Scott and me:
love for Jesus
participation in family traditions
laughter
familiar jokes
a long history of memories and same experiences
daughters-in-law who love Jesus and my sons with gusto
I'm rich in family!

pastors who preach the Word
and pray for us
a Sunday School class to teach
younger women to mentor
Biblical worship to express this thanks
I'm rich in church!

I'm rich in bibles and books and sweaters and mugs (seasonal, of course) and shoes and table linens and artificial trees covered in white lights and food and Christmas music, movies & books....

I think I'm on to something. This is like giving thanks on steroids!

Not convinced? Psalm 84:11 says, "No good thing will He withhold from those whose walk is blameless." This cannot be true. Are you thinking this? Are you mentally listing out all the things the Lord has failed to provide for you? I am too. But guess what - I've learned this: If I pray for it, and God doesn't provide it, it means it wasn't a good thing or it wasn't a good thing for me right now. But even deeper than this simple platitude is the idea of 'withholding'. I read in John 3:34 that "God gives the Spirit without limit." Without limit! In other words, God does not withhold Himself from us. We can have all of Him that we want in an unlimited way."*

I've always wanted the most gifts. Excuse me while I go get a new journal.
But not just a list. If I'm rich, then the right thing to do is give it away - share the abundance of riches with others.  Advent is right around the corner. Stay tuned on how this plays out.

Wanna Join me?

And Happy Thanksgiving!

*My favorite book from 2018 - Seated With Christ by Heather Holleman

The Songs Matter

We've begun our fourth year in the empty nest. I think we're navigating it pretty well. We love it when our kids are home. We love it when we're just two. It's all good.

Except in December. Here's the problem. In order for all the traditions to happen, it takes a whole month. All the songs that need to be heard (usually in my car on the way to everywhere), all the movies that need to be watched (have I mentioned my extensive Christmas DVD collection?), all the books to be read (not enough days in December for that even if they were home), etc. cannot be observed when they are only home a day or so around The Big Day. It makes me whiney.

I knew last year was the final of its kind when Ben and Ally would be home for at least three weeks. Now they've joined their older brother and family whose time is limited since he became a grownup.

It's just not as much fun watching all The Santa Clause movies without their commentary and laughter. How can I read aloud their childhood Christmas books without the eye rolling and sighing as I giggle or cry through them? I miss hearing them sing with gusto (or falsetto in Ben's case) Karen Carpenter's endless glorious riffs.

Last and most important, I miss our daily Advent traditions which evolved with their maturing. 

What's an overachieving, overzealous, overenthusiastic, overexcited, overdramatic, overeverything mother supposed to do with that? How do we keep it going now that they are in their 20's?

In an Advent reading this week, the subject was the importance of the songs. The sacred songs of old. The ones we only listen to this time of year. You know the ones. They reflect the glory of the story. 

One of my expectations (ok, rules) for December in our home was that we ONLY listened to Christmas music. Nothing else. I still try to enforce this, but am quite sure it's not happening to my liking. 

So the other night Scott and I were driving home from our small group, enjoying some favorites. Songs I'm pretty sure no other normal kids were subjected to. The ones, frankly, that I discovered after coming to faith in Jesus as an older teenager. New to me and enchanting as a new believer. (Think Sandi Patty, Michael W. Smith, 4Him, the Carpenters)

While we were belting The Form of Man by Bryan Duncan (look it up if you don't know it-you'll thank me) and killing it by the way, a thought came to me: I'll send the kids a song everyday that they've listened to all their lives but am certain won't be found on their own playlists. Ones that will provoke a family memory - remind of a part of the Greatest Story - bring a smile and/or maybe even cause a moment of thanks and worship. 

Yes, brilliant!

I floated the idea to them. Of course there was a little sass (expected), but as usual, they agreed to their mother's latest shenanigans. (Side parenting note - just because they roll their eyes, make fun of you or push back a little doesn't mean you shouldn't try (or insist). Sometimes a little Italian guilt helps too.)

As I'm choosing a song each day, naturally it's doing a work in my heart too. I do expect to add some silly to the sacred selections but I mostly hope that one of the outcomes is that we each sing the song to the Lord. That it would stand out from the culture's holiday noise and distraction.

"The angels, as they sang their glory song that night, began the singing of of a glory song that would never end. God's people have penned and sung glory songs ever since. Whenever and wherever they gather, they sing together of the birth, the life, the death, the resurrection, the promises, the presence, 
the power, and the grace of Jesus. Around the world, the precious truths of God's most wonderful gifts to us, the gift of His Son." Starting with the angels who sang over the manger.

Later in the Bible, the book of Revelation, we hear those who've passed to heaven singing their glory songs with the angels. "One day we will join that multitude, no longer looking forward in hope but looking back with the security of redemption accomplished, and with the angels and the saints of old we too will sing glory songs about Jesus forever and ever."

Friends, do you see it? The first Advent the angels were singing. The second Advent we will join the angels. Right now we are both looking back to celebrate the first Advent of Jesus' coming to earth AND looking forward to celebrating the second Advent of Jesus' future return to earth. It's going to happen.

And did you see that amazing line up there? "...no longer looking forward in hope but looking back with the security of redemption accomplished."

Aaaahhhh! Security of redemption accomplished. The day we no longer need hope! I can't wait for that day. Can you?

Sing the glory songs. Make them your song.

 P.S. If you want me to send you my daily choice, I will! 

If you think I'm nuts, disregard!

*Quotes from O Come Let Us Adore Him by Paul David Tripp

Bringing Wonder Back

"What has captured the wonder of our hearts will control the way we live."

Wonder.

It's a Christmas word I think. You hardly hear or read it any other time of year. Some might consider it a fluffy, whimsical expression, but it always makes me stop and consider what fills me with wonder.

When I read the quote above this morning out of the Advent devotional I bought for the important men in my life, something stirred.

The author cautioned that the Grand Story of Jesus entering our world to rescue us can become familiar. Familiar enough to not find wonder it anymore. God forbid.

I looked up the word familiar. And by 'looking up', I mean I asked my phone what it means (I'm so techie).

Familiar - well known from a long or close association; a close friendship; intimate.
OR
- common.

Oh. A choice. The first definition is wonder-ful. I like it. I want it. The second makes me think complacent, unimpressed, unnoticed, or worse - bored.

Paul David Tripp writes, "You are familiar with the story of the gospel of Jesus Christ because the love of God has been lavished on you." Whoa. Let's just take that in a second. Feel free to re-read. I'll wait for you.

That's the good familiar. Read on.

"But familiarity often does bad things to us. Often when we become familiar with things, we begin to take them for granted. When we are familiar with things, we tend to quit examining them. Often when we are familiar with things, we quit noticing them. When we are familiar with things, we tend not to celebrate them as we once did. Familiarity tends to rob us of our wonder. And here's what's important about this; what has captured the wonder of our hearts will control the way we live."

Is it possible for the Greatest Story, familiar to most of us, become unwonder-ful? It certainly is. I shudder at the thought. We must make it our job to work hard to prevent it from becoming so. We mustn't let ourselves or our children and grandchildren miss the Wonder.

My prayer this first day of Advent:

"Father, may the Story I will trace every December day, Your Story, make me fall on my knees afresh in worship. Open my eyes to Your Love in ways I've not discovered yet or worse-forgotten. Help me to notice You in every seemingly ordinary, mundane, unimportant thing I see and experience. Make familiar things new - like the songs and movies and books annually revisited. Don't let me miss one detail. Grip my heart with the wonder of your character and plan and Biblical truths of the incarnation of Jesus. May the extravagance of your Gift overshadow every other delight of the season. Amen."

You can pray it too. I hope you do.

PS. Nerdy detail - Prayer verbs! Verbs are so good. Live the verbs.

Quotes from O Come Let Us Adore Him by Paul David Tripp

Pre-Christmas Gifts

I’ve always been a fan of what I call pre-Christmas gifts. You know, the ones you receive through the month whether in the mail from friends far away, or from co-workers, friends at church, etc. who won’t see you on the actual Day.

After unwrapping, I always keep each one under the tree and look at them often. I think it’s because they speak love to me. Annual gifts like See's Candies and the White House ornament. A week or so ago, I got a box in the mail that was filled with “things I knew you’d love, that made me think of you”. This is my favorite thing. That and giving my own pre-Christmas gifts.

Usually these manifest themselves in festive items to enjoy while we wait for the real gifts that will be given on the 25th. Holiday flavored drinks, seasonally scented candles and shower gels, most anything sparkly. If it’s shiny, I’m probably going to buy it for someone I love and want to delight.

In the early mornings this Advent season, I look at the gifts we’ve received so far and am grateful to have been thought of.

Interestingly, once December arrives, my countdown to Christmas disappears. This month, all these days are what I’ve been waiting for and they are here. No need to rush through. As I work through my Advent study, which is dated, I see the days disappearing and dread the end. Sure Christmas Day is the best day, but afterward, the glitter fades and I hate that.

As I said in a previous post, I invite God to show up and show off during Advent. To come and show Himself, like He did in Bethlehem. Like He will again one day yet to be determined. To give gifts that will make us marvel at His love, generosity and presence.

So this week I've been spending those early minutes of the day making a list (lists are life!) of all the pre-Christmas gifts God has already given me from the whole year and especially these last few weeks.

The one thing (I thought) I wanted the most was not given and probably won’t be. This is ok because the aforementioned list supersedes any notion I may have had of what the heart really desires.

As usual, God has exceeded my expectations (His Ephesians 3:20 specialty). I’m overwhelmed. He loves His children. He gave the best gift ever - salvation which Jesus brought with Him from heaven - not just for “His people” but for all. For me. And for you. And He continues to lavish us with presents and presence.

These gifts come in many different sized packages. James 1:17 tells us “every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights” (Christmas lights?).

Every gift you and I will receive comes from Him. He is the greatest gift giver of all time and I am the happy recipient this morning.

Like Joseph and Mary marveled at all the words Simeon spoke about Jesus in the temple eight days after He was born (this from today’s study - why you must take time for Advent in case I haven’t mentioned it), I marvel that God is still giving gifts. And that He chooses to give them to me. This truth alone is worthy of marveling. (Can you tell marvel and all forms of the word are one of my favorites during this season?) God’s generosity and love are worthy of some marveling on my part and yours. If we notice, that is.

I bet if you took a few moments in the morning or at night, whenever things are quieter, and looked around, you’d find some unwrapped pre-Christmas gifts from God. And if you’re really in the mood, you will marvel.

Let’s do.

I’ll give you a few of mine to get you thinking.

1. Sweet resolution of what can at times be a tense, frustrating relationship, a joy robber. I’ve learned that praying for peace, letting God do works of the heart, and humbling myself “God, if I’m the problem here, please change me”, can be the catalyst for Him to do His best work of transformation. BIG praise hands!

2. God moved my beloved firstborn, my beloved first daughter-in-law and my beloved first granddaughter back to Syracuse, close enough for regular visits!
Because it’s December and I have vacation time to burn, we’ve seen them every week (or every few days if you want to be exact) since their Thanksgiving week move. Gift! If you’re wondering, Drew is thrilled too. Just ask him. Or maybe don’t.




3. A church to become our new family, where we are led in worship and learning more of who God is and what He gives and what He expects from His children. Blessing!

4. Snow outside!
5. Gifts purchased with love for others under the tree.
6. Children coming home for Christmas.

You get the idea.

What if we realized that the greatest gifts aren’t going to be under the tree (did I just say that?) but are quite possibly already given, already surrounding us?

This could change everything, namely our expectations and focus and capacity for joy and gratitude. I don’t know about you, but that’s what I want our holidays to look like. You too?

Well, you know what to do. Don’t waste a minute - start noticing (for extra credit, make a list, check it twice) then thank the Giver.

Feel free to give a few pre-Christmas gifts too (a few days left!), this is also life-giving.


PS. If you’re reading this, Scott Burtis, you did not hear me say I don’t want any presents. I don't think you ever will.

Lastly, gratuitous grandbaby pic. Marvelous.

The Thrill of Hope

The news this week seems to match what's happening outside. The days are getting darker. Do you feel it? Political parties striking opponents with venom every news cycle. Constant conflict and mayhem. Random acts of evil resulting in mass numbers of death. Sexual predators accused and exposed. We are living in a very dark time.

This isn't the only time in history, of course, that has been so dismal and discouraging, scary even. Can you imagine the 400 years spanning the end of the Old Testament history through the first coming of Christ, The Baby born in Bethlehem?

400 years of God's silence. No sound from God for generations. Take that in for a second.

For all of history prior, God had spoken to man in many ways. At first, He walked and talked with man. Sometimes He appeared in a cloud or a pillar of fire. Sometimes a manifestation of His Son showed up. Sometimes He sent an angel to carry His message. Other times He spoke through prophets. But make no mistake, God's presence was known and felt. Ignored, denied and disobeyed perhaps, but always palpable.

Until the darkness set in and He stopped speaking. No more words. No more appearances. Just silence.

We've never known this kind of black emptiness, which must have been staggering and frightening, not to mention seemingly endless. We've seen bleak days, that's for sure. Granted, there are times when God seems quieter than others. We ignore, deny and disobey the order God intended for mankind just like our ancestors. We've witnessed the depravity of man's sin against mankind in countless hideous ways through the generations, and we know there is demonic activity but we've not been without God's presence in our midst.

How do I know? We have the Bible, His preserved, inspired Word in print, easily available to most. Also, because we have the Holy Spirit living inside Christ-followers giving testimony to God at work in a life.

Those living when B.C. became A.D. on the kingdom calendar were in desperate need of rescue, of a Light to shine in the darkness, of a Savior. Sin had taken over and no one could remedy it. (Sound familiar?) Those who knew the prophecies and believed the promises God made were hoping and watching for Him and they got what they were looking for. The first Advent.

This glorious story of Jesus' first physical entry into the world can become buried beneath American Christmas fluff but make no mistake, it is always there. It's in the books, the songs, the movies, the hearts of believers, the spirit of gratitude and generosity.

Fast forward 2017 years. We, too, are living in a dark time. If we're not careful we can become scared, discouraged, hopeless God forbid.

What a gift that tomorrow starts Advent season, a time to remember and a time to be hopeful for rescue because sin is running rampant and we need a Savior desperately. Our only Hope. The thrill of hope!

The Gospels give us a play by play of the birth story of Jesus, Savior of the world. (Read it for yourself in the beginning of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.) But there's more.

Throughout the rest of the New Testament more promises are made for Jesus' second coming. He will be coming again to collect those who've entered God's family by placing their faith and trust in Jesus. Those whose sins are forgiven and removed as a result of Jesus' death, burial and resurrection.

I remember when one of our sons took this major step in his life journey. He'd been asking to "pray the prayer" and "ask Jesus in his heart" for some time, but we didn't rush it until we felt he had complete understanding. That day came when he was sitting in the bathtub talking to me.

"It's just that I'm sick of sinning, Mom."
Whoa.

Yes, indeed.
As I read the headlines and look in the mirror, I'm sick of sin and sinning too.

Come, Lord Jesus, we need You.

God always keeps His promises. Jesus is going to come back. I hope His return will be in my lifetime. What a glorious day that day will be! And I hope it's at Christmas time, when we are especially watchful and aware.

Until then, let these truths take root in your heart.

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more,

neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore,

for the former things have passed away. Revelation 21:4

And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun,

for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever. Revelation 22:5

Plaid Mugs Don't Lie

Did you notice? It's the most wonderful time of year again!
Well, it is. I can prove it.
Look what jumped off the shelf  into my TJMaxx cart this week.

Plaid mugs don't lie.

Ahem. Seriously.
It’s not because of the snow. Though it is wonderful.
It’s not because of the red cup. Though it makes a dreary day cheery.
It’s not because of the music. Though it changes the whole mood of the season.
It’s not because of the pine trees. Though I may or may not be preoccupied with thoughts of how I will decorate ours this year.
It’s not because of the lights. Though there can never, ever be too many.
It’s not because of the food. Though I am obsessed with holiday food.
It’s not because of the presents. Don’t get me started.
It’s not because of the family gatherings/kids home from school. Though that one is close.

No. It’s about the very best thing about Christmas. The anticipation. The hope.

Advent. I’ve written many a post* about this important yet often under-acknowledged holiday over the years because I'm obsessed with it. Advent is what took my most favorite month of the year and sent my enjoyment of it over the top.

There’s so much to love about the sacredness of Advent. It’s so...so...daily and intentional.

It’s an every day focus on what matters most. The entrance of a Savior into our world. Recalling the details of His first arrival, that starry Bethlehem night. It’s so wonderful to read the eyewitness accounts in the Bible trying to imagine the details. It’s a special kind of worship. Assigning value by remembering and thanking God. It’s honoring to Him.

There's also a looking forward. A longing for the second and final Advent, when all the promises of the Bible are fulfilled at last. When the Savior arrives...again. Not as a baby though, rather a mighty warrior coming to collect His brothers and sisters and bring us to our Father. Oh that will be a day!

I’m looking forward to it and hope you are too. It’s the dream of all dreams. The hope of all hopes. As tragedy and evil increase, the more my anticipation intensifies. Better days are ahead, friends. This isn't as good as it's going to get. Not by far!

What if that hope became the focal point of our Christmas season?
That’s what Advent does.

May I gently suggest you make Advent a more prominent part of your December?

Let's start with the basics:

What Advent ISN'T:
It isn't finding a piece of candy every day hidden in a pocket or behind a fake door. That may be fun and tasty, but it’s not Advent.
It isn't attending a Christmas church service, though we should definitely do that.
It isn't baking Jesus a birthday cake, though he did create frosting for us to love.

Those can be good things, but there is so much more! It's about celebrating Christmas, Jesus-style, making Him the Main Event.

What Advent IS: Every day of December (sometimes starting on December 1st, other times starting the 4th Sunday before Christmas Day)...

It’s preparing room in our heart for Jesus to come fill and quite possibly rearrange what is revealed.
It’s taking time out of our day to focus our thoughts, our prayers, our heart desires on the two Advents.
It's making space in our day to be still, to read God's Word, to pray and listen.
It’s personal worship.
It’s confession of sins.
It's mending broken relationships as much as it is up to us.
It’s finding ways to reach out to the needy, the poor.
It’s being kind and generous to everyone we meet, including those closest to us.
It’s a choice not to arrive at December 25th irritable, worn out and full of regret, wishing we had found the secret to a meaningful Christmas.

How does that sound? Impossible? Nope. It's 100% within our grasp.

It's not even complicated - that's the beauty of it. This is not the time of year we want to take a break from our devotional life. If anything, it should become a greater priority because of all the distractions we know are going to compete for our precious time.

I like to think of it as inviting Jesus to show up in the midst of all the merry and make Himself known to me in a new way that will make me marvel even more at the wonder of Him.

Just find a quiet space, your Bible, light a candle if you like them (I recommend a wood wick and listen to the crackle) and maybe start a fire in your fireplace. No fireplace? No problem. Surely you have Netflix.

(And yes, that's a whimsy turkey...after all, it's Thanksgiving this week!)

As my love for all things Advent, anticipating Jesus’ arrival, intensifies, so does my library of Advent devotionals. These are books written with the expressed intent to help us redirect our minds for a portion of every day (beware - the sheer delight may spill over into more of your moments.) to consider why Christmas is a thing, how it can and should change us, and spark creative, meaningful traditions for our children and grandchildren that will continue for generations.

I have a few favorites and I threw in a moose because I live in the Adirondacks:

Let's take a closer look.....









Found a few more....

I told you I obsess.

When every day of December is focused on Advent, joy permeates every area of your life. The busyness of the season no longer controls your schedule. The hectic pace is not bossing you around. What’s important takes center stage and with fresh Christ-centered moments, the not-as-important frenzy falls away.  And isn’t a silent night and peace on earth what we are all looking for?

Want to join me? Time to start planning now so you’ll be ready when it starts.

Maybe you're thinking, "Girl, you're crazy! This is the nuttiest month of the year, the worst to try and carve out time to sit still!" True, but maybe ask yourself this, “How hungry am I for a Jesus-filled holiday season? Is this the year I take a more spiritual approach to the holidays?”

Whatever you do, don’t settle for an American Christmas alone. I love it all too, but at the end of the day, if it wasn't about Jesus, it didn't mean anything. How have we shown the world around us our Hope, what really matters at Christmas? 

Just like all those years ago, when our Savior first took on flesh and was born into a manger, He is coming for you. He wants to bring you good gifts. All because He loves you. So why not keep watch for Him? Anticipate something wonderful.

"So in these weeks of Advent we ask God to heighten our awareness of His presence, 

to open our eyes to what He is doing - in us and in the world. He may speak to us through the words of others, He may show Himself in the face of someone in need, He may care for us through the kindness of friends, He may move us when we gather for worship, He may stir us through art or music, or He may whisper inwardly by His Spirit. Stay alert."**

Ask the questions - then make a change.
Be like the mugs - anticipate the wonder.



P.S. If you have a different devotional recommendation, do not keep it to yourself, please post it in the comment section.


*feel free to sneak back through my November and December posts through the years for more thoughts on Advent.
**Living The Christian Year by Bobby Gross

The Spiritual Discipline of Keeping Spiritual Disciplines

Addy Grace Burtis wishes you a Happy New Year!  I mean, have you ever? Yes, I bought her a tutu. I knew it was a good decision when my 22 year old co-worker saw her and responded, "Suddenly I feel like I need to wear a tutu." Yes.

Did you have as beautiful a December as we did here in Speculator, NY? Lots of white, piles of snow, frozen everything. Perfect. The exact opposite of December 2015. I couldn't be more thankful.

I hope you had a sweet, meaningful Christmas season as well.

All of our people were home with us and have since departed. But not before our annual after-Christmas family talk. It used to be centered around this box, given to us many years ago.

For at least a dozen Christmases, all five of us wrote down on a piece of paper a gift we planned to give Jesus that year and put it in the box. It's fun to read them years later.

I promise not to tease my sister anymore.

I promise not to freak out at my brothers.

I want to pray everyday.

I will read the Bible through this year.

I will try to obey my parents.

I want to share my faith more. 

And so many others....

Now that our littles are grown, we've modified this tradition a bit. Based on conversations with friends who inspire, Scott and I challenged ourselves and our kids on Thanksgiving to show up at Christmas ready to name and pursue specific spiritual disciplines in 2017. Our birthday gift to Jesus.  

To get us thinking, a few examples I'd heard from others:

The spiritual discipline of not having to have the last word.

The spiritual discipline of arriving early.

The spiritual discipline of a daily quiet time.

The spiritual discipline of underspending.

(I started one early and daily through Advent, just to get into the groove - the spiritual discipline of hand writing a note to someone who matters to me. Specifically, those whom I haven't been in contact with in a while.) 

I fully enjoyed remembering and telling each recipient what they've added to my life. Then I prayed and wrote what I was praying for each so they could know. Result? Fixed my mind on others through the entire month. Not to mention, I later learned, God would have many receive the note on a day when they particularly needed to know He was aware of them. He is so good! 

You may have noticed that almost none of the list above are spiritual at first glance, but I'm a firm believer that if we attempt anything with the intent to find God and display His reflection, it becomes spiritual.

All six kids agreed to participate. Fast forward to New Years night, our last together for awhile, the great reveal. 

We didn't want this to be a private thing, but rather a family gesture that we could pursue collectively, agreeing to check in on each other.  

The conversation started slowly, but ten minutes in and the kids were naming healthy behaviors faster than I could write them down. (We all know if we don't write down a resolution/goal, we'll forget it two weeks in. Am I right?)

I love what they want to work on, weaknesses they struggle with perhaps. I  marvelled at their honesty and vulnerability. I'm inspired by them.

Are you curious? Ok, you twisted my arm, here are a few:

The spiritual discipline of talking to Jesus before I talk to any other person when I'm hurt or upset.  

The spiritual discipline of giving everyone the benefit of the doubt.

The spiritual discipline of not judging or assuming the worst.

The spiritual discipline of offering grace to everyone, especially those closest.  

The spiritual discipline of reading books that will help my faith grow.

The spiritual discipline of not always putting my headphones in, but embracing the sounds or silence around me. 

The spiritual discipline of journaling thanks. 

Next, I read a little something that flowed from my pen into my journal earlier that morning as I considered the beginning of a new year.

Going into 2017, this I know for sure

Jesus loves me.

God is in control of everything that concerns me.

The Spirit is with me no matter what.

God's faithfulness and purpose will lead me.

Goodness and mercy will follow me.

In Him I already have everything I need.

I have nothing to fear.

I think it's good to write down what we know. To prepare our minds. Like every calendar year, many things happen to us - good, bad and ugly. I don't want to lose my footing in 2017. 

Before calling it a night, we prayed together, dedicating ourselves to serving Jesus through these initiatives as best we can in the new year, asking Him for help and success. What a tremendous blessing for these two parents to witness and be a part of.

A collective cracking up ended this holy moment as Addy Grace took to blowing raspberries while all our heads were still bowed and eyes still closed.

 A baby changes everything you know.

P.S. Naturally, because I'm an annoying type-A woman (don't you feel sorry for them?), this happened and found their way into the suitcases.

Parents of grown or almost grown children, don't stop guiding or including your kids in your own spiritual pursuits. Their participation might surprise and delight you.

Willing to Dabble....Just a Smidge

Five days until Thanksgiving. Seems like the older I get, the quicker the holidays and the passing of time.   

Because this is my favorite time of year, I'm up to my eyeballs in lists, and loving it. I have lists for what to pack for our upcoming road trip, the menu, groceries I need to buy upon arrival, and of course, my year round daily list of gifts. This one never ends and serves to keep me from my natural tendency to complain or feel entitled.

 

The practice of gratitude is everywhere and quite fashionable these days. Of course we know to be thankful in November. All the cool kids are doing it. So I'm not going to talk about that today. 

As Thanksgiving Day approaches, we as consumers are constantly tempted to rush into Christmas. You know it's true. I find many people are quite passionate on both sides of the aisle about it too. There seem to be two camps of people. The die hard "No Christmas until after Thanksgiving" And those who dive right in, blending both with joy. I have two friends who describe each well. One insists "no co-mingling" the holidays and is a purist - no red and green until brown and orange have fulfilled their place on the calendar.

Another, who has known much pain and difficulty in life (connection, maybe?) is a true co-mingler. She insists that Thanksgiving and Christmas are the holidayS. Plural. She has no problem joining the two together. She says the Christmas season is too short and it brings so much joy. Why wait? 

I get this. I'm actually kind of jealous of yet another friend, born in Canada, who is free to launch into Christmas right after Halloween because they've already celebrated Thanksgiving in mid-October. Yes!

I usually land in the middle somewhere. Not one who cares too much about Halloween, I'm all for extending the Christmas season. Four weeks is simply not enough time! People are generally happier, mellower and eager to bless others during the season. We need more of that, don't you think? I think we should petition lawmakers to move Thanksgiving up. Why does it have to be so late in November? I mean, if it's meant to commemorate harvest time, the 4th Thursday is much too late.

Still, the truth is I don't decorate for Christmas until after Thanksgiving, but I am willing to listen to a tiny smidge of Christmas music on the radio (when we lived in civilization where we actually had radio stations), saving my coveted and much loved CD collection until Black Friday. (You know how I feel about the practice of delayed gratification!)

I start out the family with both MercyMe albums (as loud as possible to wake them up), then move on to the Carpenters, Michael Buble and a new favorite if you can imagine, Rod Stewart. And so, so many more. 

My latest justification to become a co-mingler is that I work full-time. For 23 years, I was a stay-at-home mom and had as much time as I needed to search for new holiday dishes and dessert recipes, find crafty items to make with the kids, and create my own homemade gifts. I walk 4 minutes to work everyday, therefore, spending no time driving around listening to the familiar songs. Not to mention having plenty of hours to watch all the non-negotiable Christmas movies.

 

I am limited now. I don't have enough time! I'm tired at the end of the day. Waaaaa. Earlier this week I read that there's only 36 days until Christmas - what???

So here's my confession. I charged up my Christmas ipod a few days ago. And I listened to it. Yes, I have an ipod dedicated to the most wonderful time of year. In our family, Mommy gets all the kids' hand-me-down, outdated, cast aside electronics. Works for me. Now I don't have to change the songs out. The kids used to do this for me but now my faithful husband puts up with, I mean, lovingly appeases my wishes, making sure I'm fully stocked and ready to shuffle.

The thing about Christmas music is the deeply meaningful phrases. Sometimes in the familiarity we miss them.

A few that have captured my attention and affection the past few years:

The soul felt its worth

The thrill of hope; the weary soul rejoices

The wonders of His love 

The hopes and fears of all the years are met in Thee tonight

He's the savior we have been praying for
In our humble hearts he will dwell
God is in us, God is for us, God is with us, Emmanuel*

Here is our Promised One, Jesus our Hope has come

With the angels we sing Glory to God in the Highest

He has brought this great love unto us**

Typically, I can be resistant to new music. All genres. I have my faves and I stick with them. Did I mention how many Christmas songs I already have (615 on the ipod to date)? I don't really need any more. But I'll take that back in a New York minute if Carrie Underwood puts out a Christmas album.

Alone in the car last night an unfamiliar song started. I was aghast! What was this? I didn't authorize this addition. I recognized the voice but didn't immediately place it and definitely had not heard the song before.

It was amazing. I fell in love. I cried. I hit repeat about 17 times.

I burst into the house and told Scott of my discovery.

 He gave me the side grin. 

"Have you heard it?"

"Who do you think put it on there? I knew you wouldn't listen any other way."

Well, that makes me seem a little stubborn. I reject this. 

Faithful to my loves is more like it.

At any rate, I had to tell someone so I sent the song to my daughter-in-law because she is trying to become a co-mingler but is married to her father-in-law's clone. Certain other family members would not have shared my joy. Ben, I'm looking at you.

I played it 8 more times for Scott before turning in for the night. I heard him singing along. I think he is quite pleased with himself. He's so sneaky though.

Oh how I love a new favorite thing. Want to hear it?  Click here

Go ahead, I'll wait.

See what I mean? Amazing!

Talk about phrases that capture and delight...

pick any from this amazing song Christ With Us by Todd Fields:

God is with us

He has come to save us

Mercy lights the darkness

Christ is Here

God is with us

Healer of the broken

Word of Heaven spoken (!!!)

Christ is here 

All rise, in His presence we are free

His love has shown that we are not alone

And that's the best news of all, before Thanksgiving or after. We are not alone, God is with us. Receive it today without hesitation.

PS. If you must wait six days to listen to it, that's fine, but don't forget to come back and Click here 

*God is With Us by Casting Crowns

**Unto Us by Matthew West

It Went Too Fast

I used to like the end of our kids' school breaks. I had no problem with them going back to school. I was ready to get back to routine and schedules. Of course, I knew they would be home for dinner every night.

Now the end of Christmas means all my kids leave home and go back to their own lives, apart from us. That's a whole different ball game. I'm not a big fan (at this moment).  So as usual, I'm fighting the post-Christmas blues. Seems a little tougher this year.

I tried explaining this to a few of my new 20-something friends. "It's because for a month or so I've been planning, making lists, choosing recipes, buying presents, decorating the house, baking, cooking, and so much more. Now they are just gone. Poof! And I feel sad."

The girls all sigh, entering into my emotion, and tell me it's going to be ok. The boys sort of look at me like, "Whoa, you're such a mom. Christmas is over. It's not a big deal."

Well, it is to me and I'm not sure I'll ever like the end of it. Scott has picked up on my mood and surely in an effort to comfort, reminded me that our goal has always been to raise responsible adults who are independent and mature. That was as helpful as you can imagine. But he's right and of course I'm grateful. I just wish I didn't love their company so much. 

That said, I'm fighting the sadness by 1. Not allowing my feelings to get in the driver's seat and boss me around, and 2. Putting my focus on all the joys of the last few weeks. This is where my ongoing list of blessings, gratitude comes in. As I record and re-read each line, I am reminded that the blessings and the positive always outweigh the negative.  

Just a little bonus tidbit you probably already know - late nights and little sleep do not help one discern feelings and thoughts. Rest! (FYI - older kids stay up later, especially when they sleep on an air mattress in your room. Our new place is considerably smaller than our last so every night one of our kids were in with us. One night both boys slept in our room. It was sort of sweet. There was no way I would get away with taking that picture.)

Part of my problem is that I can't figure out where all the days went. It's such a blur.  I look at the calendar and think, "When did that happen?" And "What did we do that day?" "How could it have been a week ago?"

Mind you, this is also the first time I've juggled working full time with family time. It was challenging to say the least. I'm not sure I did it well. I know I was fully present in every moment, but I still feel the time slipped through my hands and as hard as I tried, I couldn't make it last or slow down.

It's crazy inside my head sometimes. I honestly don't know how I would survive this life and all the unruly emotions that come with it if I didn't have a Heavenly Father who knows and understands and invites me to cry it out and let Him carry all that for me. Make that for US. He is so good. 

We have been spending a lot of time together and that is always time well spent. Nothing is as comforting and reorienting as Jesus and the Bible. 

New Years kind of snuck up on me too which was unsettling. I like to know what my new goals and spiritual disciplines will be and get a good start (control freak, much?).

Since I didn't read through the Bible last year, I decided to go that route again. January and Genesis just go together.  I believe we need to read the Bible with both a deep and wide approach. Deeply dive into passages and verses studying and lingering on them as long as it takes to understand and apply each. And wide, by reading the whole volume in a concentrated amount of time to get the whole picture. This is the best way to get to know the heart of God, and that's what I want more than anything.

I invited the women I work with to join me and I'm excited that many of them are. If you're interested too, I will leave the link to the plan we are using at the bottom of this post.

So how was your Christmas? I hope you were blessed with peace, love, and God's presence along with fun with family and friends. I wish I could sit with you and hear all about it.

I guess I'll end this post with some pictures from ours. I didn't take too many because older kids don't really want a picture after they open each gift. But if you are interested, this is what it looked like here in the mountains.

Ally came home first and because Scott and I were working, she drove an hour, by herself, to a train station she'd never been to and picked up her brother. Classic expressions pictured here. Ben does not dig selfies, so he rarely cooperates. She never includes both eyes.

One last shopping trip for these girls. You have to appreciate that any and all good shopping happens -at the very least - 50 minutes away. So we consider it a road trip. Which means a specialty drink (when you can find one).

Some people get and are not turned off by my love of gift giving and receiving. Many sweet friends sent me special gifts - all of which I love and adore (gift and giver). I got this special package in the mail loaded with goodies for me. I sent a pic to Brittany and she said, about the giver, "She knows you so well!" That's the point. And I am blessed.

Guess who insisted on helping me open them?

That watch though! If the goal was for me to feel loved, it worked! Thanks my friend, you know who you are and you amaze me.

Some special friends who mentored us during our first days of marriage, blessed us with this yummy treat. They have not failed to send these chocolates to us every year for 25 years. This is why we are fat, but we are happy!

One of Ben's best childhood buddies came for a 2 day visit. We loved having Josh with us. I always giggle at how close they sit to each other. I hope this friendship lasts forever.

Speaking of Ben, Ally begged him to let her straighten his kinky curly hair. An interesting experiment.

We decided he looked like he stepped right out of a Guitar Hero game.

Next up was another trip to the train station to grab these weary all night travelers. We are big fans of public transportation. We are even bigger fans of kids coming home for Christmas!

We attended a lovely Christmas Eve service and then came home to get to bed early because the grandmas were coming in the morning! Oh and Santa before that.

I went out on a limb and bought some matchy-matchy clothes for the kids, knowing I was taking a great risk. They have become quite picky about my apparel selections. Turns out I nailed it. Listen up young mothers who think your growing kids will refuse dressing alike again - you just have to get the right clothes!

Yes, Ally's shirt says "fries before guys".  For a reason. (Britt's doesn't say that, obviously)

When did they get so grown up?

And thanks to Scott's mom, we have triplets in the house!

This is the photo of a man who is very proud of his two sons. Notice his clone wears the same color.

When the rest of the family arrived, we had a really nice dinner together. Not everyone could come and not everyone is pictured. 

Selfie sticks make sensible people take silly pictures.

A boy and his grandma

My girls

I loved every gift specially purchased for me. Here are a few of my favorite gifts...

Books, of course! I gave Scott those boy and girl skiers because that's going to be us very soon as we take up cross country skiing. It's meant to be prophetic.

Scott gave me the 'wow' gift this year. Something I've always wanted, a personalized photo calendar. It is hanging at my desk at work. I just love it. Each family member is featured on their birthday month. Ahem, even me. Imagine the month of April - two pictures of Angela and no one else. Ew. I don't mean to be ungrateful or insensitive, but people. I guess I'll have to fold that one over when we get there. Can you imagine anyone visiting my desk and seeing a calendar with photos of myself? That sweet man, he means well. 

A few days after Christmas some longtime friends came up for a visit. Our kids were little together. Look at them now! We missed you Jesse. We had so much fun catching up, eating and playing games. We talked about God and laughed loud. Bob asks important, deep questions and I love hearing everyone's answers. It was faith building for sure. 

Scott was working while Donna & I were home staying warm, I mean, getting the next meal ready.

We worked on New Years Eve. A few of Ally's friends came up to work in the kitchen, eat up our leftovers and play more games. They are nice boys.

I hung out at the Front Desk with this fun bunch...

Scott worked all over and with the ones who were going to make sure these fell at the right time. They sort of did as we brought in the new year on Newfoundland time (the easternmost place). 10:30pm baby! This is the way to go for those of us who don't like to stay up til midnight.

And shortly thereafter, it was over.  All but one has left, and we only have 2 more days with him. It's so bittersweet.  So much to be thankful for. We had unending fun watching numerous favorite childhood Christmas movies, playing silly games, reliving memories, talking about important things, and just enjoying one another's company. Gifts upon gifts. Joy and more joy.

After our kids and guests left, the snow arrived. Bad timing. 

Winter is here now. So is a new year. New beginnings. A clean slate for God to continue writing the stories of our lives for His glory. Let's be sure to not try and take the pen away or doubt it's accuracy and intent. He knows what He is doing. We can trust all of it will be for our best.

This is a great passage and prayer to start us off...

"He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities - all things were created through Him and for Him. And He is 

before all things and in Him all things hold together.

And so I pray for you asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him, bearing fruit in every good work and 

increasing in the knowledge of God. 

May you be strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might for all endurance and patience with joy, giving thanks to the Father who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins."*

That's enough to chew on for a while. It is the kind of amazing truth and intention that will carry us boldly into the new year, eager to fulfill His calling in our lives. This is my prayer for you and me.

Thank you for reading all the way to the end, indulging me by letting me hold on to Christmas a little bit longer. The sadness has lifted and I'm excited to see what God has planned in the days ahead. I know it will be worth it.

This doesn't mean my Christmas trees are coming down anytime soon or that I'll stop listening to the music in the early mornings. I need a little more time...

________________

*verses from Colossians 1

Bible reading plan 

(I really love this reading plan because you can read the OT in the morning and the NT in the evening.  Is there anything better than getting the Word in your mind first thing and last? No, there isn't. Also, you are given a day off on the weekend to catch up or get ahead.) Please join in. It's not too late.