Saturday, November 16, 2013

Dear God,

I have spent the last few days doing my spring-summer-fall house cleaning since I hadn't really had a chance to do it since April.  It's hard, laborious work sometime but the feel I get afterwards is so sweet.  Clean floors, no clutter, everything in its place, all is well feel.

The clean-up, spruce-up, "get ready for Advent" process reminds me of the work I need to do to prepare my heart to receive Christ more deeply, more meaningfully this year.  If I put as much effort, time, thought, and energy into my spiritual and emotional work as I do my physical work, I will reap great benefits.  I will discover the babe whimpering in the manger; I will see the glow in the sky where angels hearken all who are open; and I will sing the song of faith.  If I put off the work, I will miss Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany this year.  I will get lost in the Christmas shuffle, be distracted, and not recognize the gift when it is given.

Why would I not want to heartily prepare for your coming?  Why would I choose to do anything else?

Great God,
you are worthy
to be praised,
to be honored
in every way.
In seasons
of rejoicing,
it is sublime
to share
in the joy
with you.
In seasons
of doubt,
why would
I trust
anyone more?
In seasons
of sorrow,
who else
would I
turn to?
May my preparedness
lead me
toward you
and others,
I pray.

Love, Andrea