Hustle and Bustle...
IT HAS ALREADY STARTED!! It is only December 2. Patti and I have four engagements and that's just today. I love the hustle and bustle of this Season, but it can be hectic, stressful, and even energy draining. I am going to work hard this Holiday Season to not let that happen, and especially to steal the Joy of the Season! So this year here are some things that I am going to try to do. I invite and encourage you to make a list as well.
1. Plan ahead, don't rush, and even take a break. Enjoy the moment. Even in traffic and crowds!!
2. Be realistic in expectations of myself and others
3. Create a relaxing and joyful surrounding
4. Be respectful and give compliments freely.
5. Help those in need, even if it is just a Mom at the store with her kids.
6. Laugh a lot and Smile even more!
7. Several times throughout the day, pause and be grateful for "the Reason of the Season".
A challenge that I saw on social media was to read a chapter of the Gospel of Luke starting on December 1. There are 24 chapters in this Gospel, so you will wind up reading this Gospel on Christmas Eve. As the post states, "On Christmas Eve you will have read an entire account of Jesus Life and wake up on Christmas Morning knowing WHO and WHY We Celebrate". I like this "tradition" and doing it. I invite you to join me.
Today is December 2. This is from Luke 2:13-15:
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying
14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
Holidays are meant for celebrating the birth of Christ. But they are also a special time for friends and family, and even making new friends. They are to be fun and joyful. After all, it is the greatest time of the year, because of the Reason we celebrate. So let's not hold back, but joyfully share with others...just like the shepherds did on that first Christmas night!
This Sunday we begin the Season of Advent. This is a special time to help us focus and prepare for Immanuel. The theme of the first Sunday in Advent is Hope. We know where our Hope comes from, the Lord. If you know of someone who has little or no hope, tell them about the source of real Hope. One that is always there, no matter the circumstances. See you Sunday...
And let us all remember...
YOU ARE LOVED!
Pastor Lonnie
(You can reach Pastor Lonnie by calling or text 615-496-2502 or send an email to lonniecastle@gmail.com)