Sunday, December 5, 2010

comfort and joy


Advent. "This is a time set aside to prepare for the coming of Christ at Christmas." This is my absolute favorite time of year. The carols, the lights, the joy of the season...I cherish these special weeks in December every year. This year, the spirit of the season seems especially real to me. I feel so blessed, so very blessed. My John...My Natalie...My husband...My family...My Savior. I give thanks for all of these.
I've truly tried not to get so stressed with the "to do's" this year. I haven't started one single bit of shopping for gifts [deep breath]. Every time I get stressed because I haven't cleaned the toilets in weeks or dusted the shelves and fans in [uh-oh, maybe months], I decide to let it go... I have just tried to soak in the moments with my precious family and know that if that counter doesn't get wiped off or that load of laundry doesn't get folded or put away immediately, it's okay. I took a picture of the shoes that were piling up in my hallway. It may seem silly to you, but it is quite symbolic for me. Each day, each hour, I have to choose to let go of the earthly desires to be more/have more/do more and learn to be content in each moment. Each day I have to remember to find comfort and joy in the knowledge and power of God's grace. So during this time of year, may I continue to prepare my heart for the coming of Christ at Christmas. May I remember to teach my babies about God's gift through Jesus. May I focus on my family, friends, and all of those who give so much to me. May I give to the those in need and remember my many blessings.

God rest ye merry, gentlemen

Let nothing you dismay
For Jesus Christ our Savior
Was born on Christmas Day
To save us all from Satan's power
When we were gone astray
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy.

3 comments:

Keri Sullivan Ninness said...

Kelly- that post was EXACTLY what my heart needed to hear. I am sitting here looking at my advent wreath and all I can think of is "i really need to put some greenery around it before people come to my home". Yes, a lesson on the 'reason for the season' was well timed. Thank you!

Sutton Family said...

great post sweet kelly! natalie and john won't remember if there was dust on the shelves, but they will remember what you teach them about our Savior that we celebrate! love you!

The White Family said...

I'm glad I'm not the only one that has let the toilets go and the dust pile up! There are too many other things to enjoy right now!