GTA Advent Journey Day 18: Things Above

GTA Advent Journey

Day 18: Things Above

“Haven’t you ever longed for a deeper experience of Christmas, something more spiritual and a little less commercial? Perhaps you have always loved Christmas, but somewhere along the way it became so filled with obligations that you feel trapped, and you wish you could slow down and find simpler ways of celebrating the holiday. Wouldn’t it be great if the Christmas season was a time of refreshment of our spirit?”  

p.23  My Dancing Day

The Building of the Tower of Babel from the Bedford Hours (1414-23) vellum, Master of the Duke of Bedford workshop, British Library, London, UK/ copyright British Library Board/ All rights reserved/ Image courtesy of the Bridgeman Library and featured in My Dancing Day : Reflections of the Incarnation in Art and Music. As you gaze at this busy scene, think of all of your holiday preparations and resolved to slow down this year.

Those were the words I used to start my journey into the heart of Christmas.  As I look back, I can see that life has not gotten simpler but only more and more complicated as the years have passed. Everyday becomes an ever present battle to decide where to cast my attention. Who should get the first fruits and were can I juggle something so that I can be all things to all people?

We are all being hard pressed from every side and many times we are forced to decide that those nearest and dearest to us must be pushed aside.

I am comforted when I read in Colossians 3 the formula for a more peaceful life:

vs. 1.Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.

vs 12. Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

vs. 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts,…and be thankful.”

Dear Lord, as we travel through our busy week, help us to remember that you are in control of all things and that everything will work together for your glory. Teach us to slow down to stop and smell the roses so that we may lean into your loving arms and hear your voice.

Grace and Peace!