December 2, 2019

As we look towards the upcoming season, our minds can be flooded with so many emotions. Some of our most precious memories wrapped tightly with ribbons of love and laughter and joy of past holidays. 

And yet, even still, we can often feel an emptiness. A longing for times gone by. Of loved ones gone too soon. Financial fears and burdens. Disappointing health issues. Or, time that has passed too quickly. Children who seem to have grown up too fast. And, those empty chairs that were once filled with life, now seem vacant and cold. 

Yes, even the most precious memories can sometimes bring sadness. And emotionally, this oh so beautiful season can become heavy and dark.

As our seasons of waiting and wanting and grieving may come, so does the hope we find in Advent. And it is so much more promising and fulfilling than our emotions. It is full of a hope and all the promises of heaven that maybe our hearts have forgotten. 

Perhaps this very season God is calling your heart to Him. Gently and sweetly reminding you that He sees you. He knows how your heart feels. And, He cares. 

On this second day of Advent, just whisper His name. Jesus. With open hands and an honest heart, give it all to Him. 

He is strong enough to carry the load. He is wanting to lead your heavy heart to a sweeter, quieter place as this season unfolds. His season. 

And, the beauty of His hope far outshines the darkness. May His light give you a sweet glimpse of His glory to come. And, hope. A never-ending, everlasting hope for all the world. This Christmas and always.

‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.’ Matthew 11:28

‘Cast all your anxiety on [Jesus] because he cares for you.’ I Peter 5:7

‘The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.’ Psalm 34:18