The tradition of putting Christmas ornaments on our tree each year brings back memories and smiles, creates a bright, seasonal ambiance to the room and tells the story of our faith, family and life journey through displaying family heirlooms and cherished collectibles. This month I have been exploring different themes of Advent and traditions with Christmas to help prepare our hearts for celebration of the birth of Christ. Something as simple as Christmas ornaments enriches our holiday and deepens our Christmas experience. Christmas ornaments provide several moments of connecting with our memories and generating a holiday spirit – as we unwrapped them and put them on the tree, as we watch them in the twinkling lights and tell others the stories behind the décor and as we gently wrapped them into safe keeping for another year. The History of the Christmas Ornament Bringing inside an evergreen this time of year began in Germany in the 15th and 16th centuries. Often these trees … [Read more...]
Advent Themes – Expectations!
Holidays are full of expectations. I expect everything to be perfect, nice, full of joy. I long for family members to get along and to feel loved. I want the table to look just right and the food to be yummy. I expect to see the smiles on the faces of those around me and hear the giggles and glee of my grandkids. I long to experience the wonder and awe of that first Christmas too. To hear the angels in all their glory singing. To kneel with the Wise Men and worship the newborn King. To cuddle the Prince of Peace in my arms and my heart as Mary did. To rest knowing Jesus has arrived and will come again. Expectations can be both good and bad, but are part of our human nature and a relevant Advent theme to ponder. Expectations I read the other day that expectations were “premeditated disappointments.” When we focus on too high, unrealistic, and far long-off possibilities and dreams, our hopes are often dashed. When I cling too tightly on how I see things and assume how … [Read more...]
You’ve Seen One, But Do You Know the Meaning About the Moravian Star?
The Moravian Star? You’ve seen one. I’ve seen them. But do you know the meaning about this Advent Star? I didn’t know its name and learning its story revealed a new tradition I am adding to enrich my holiday season. What is the Moravian Star? You will recognize the Moravian star when you see it. I did too, but didn’t know that this type of star had a special name and story. While we may decorate with stars on our trees and mantels at Christmas time, the Moravian star is unique in having usually 26 points and is multidimensional. The number of star points can range from 6 to more than 100. The Moravian Star represents the greatness of God, creator of the universe, the star that led the Wise Men to Bethlehem to worship the newborn king and the star of David, the Messiah, Christ. The Moravian star is often made from paper and is illuminated so it shines from within. Usually white or yellow, the star has been made in all the colors in more recent times. What is the Story of the … [Read more...]
Advent Themes – HOPE!
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15: 13 (NIV) As the reader finished the second reading on Sunday with these words, I felt like God was presenting the message in this blessing just for me. As a spiritual director, I have learned to pay attention when words or an image vibrates within my heart and stirs my spirit. On Sunday these words of Advent hope struck me deeply and continue to stay with me in my prayers and conversations with God. In December on this blog, I’m exploring the various themes of Advent and what they could mean for our life now and forever. This week’s word: HOPE! Why Advent Hope? December here in northwest Ohio is dark and damp and dreary. Winter is gloomy and murks my spirit. I long for the warmth and lightness of summer, not the snowy, hide by the fireplace under the crochet blanket, dusky coldness that shrouds everything. I realized … [Read more...]
Monthly Musings –What I Learned in November
Monthly Musings Each month I pause and look back at what I am discovering, learning, and exploring in life – I call these my monthly musings. I believe strongly in living a reflective life as a spiritual practice. We rush through life, often missing the lessons, enjoying the highlights and sleeping through what we should be paying attention to. Capturing these special moments gives meaning, depth, and delight to life. Let’s wake up to the wonders in the ordinary all around us, especially at this most sacred time of year. I record what I notice on the pages of my Monthly Musing Journal. You can use anything, scrapes of papers, a journal or a calendar. Copies of my Monthly Musing Journal are available on Amazon and are a convenient way to keep track of the little things in life we often miss. Or if you want to click the button at the end of this post to get a free copy of my one sheet Monthly Musing handout. What I Learned in November Lessons Learned I am reminded this month … [Read more...]
The Rhythms and Rest of Sabbath
How can we practice the rhythms and rest of Sabbath? In November, Sabbath has been the theme for Healthy Spirituality’s Tending the Holy Thursday series where I highlight a spiritual practice or a person(s) of faith for several weeks, so we can explore the topic with more depth. It is my hope and prayer we all can learn something new, gain ideas, and be motivated to dig deeper into this practice. As usual with each month’s theme, I have an additional FREE download for you. I knew I wanted to learn more what the Bible said about Sabbath and was surprised at the number of verses referring to this practice. Then I began to dive into quotes from the writings of others who pondered this topic and I was amazed at the nuggets of wisdom I discovered. So I compiled them for you into a PDF called “Quotes and Verses to Ponder About the Sabbath” and you can obtained this resource by simply clicking the button at the end of this post. I hope its words deepens your exploration. Finding the … [Read more...]
Broken Crayons Still Color – A Book and a Blessing
“Every one we meet loves someone, longs for something and has lost someone.” This expression reminds me that all of us are broken. Every single one of us carries hurts in our heart, sores in our souls, and wounds in our self-worth. All of us are broken crayons. Where do we find hope in the midst of heartbreak? How do we grow from the kicks and cuts from life? I know praying, speaking to a spiritual director, journaling, listening to God’s word – all gives me strength to face a new day. But another key practice is hearing the stories from others – how they survived. How they learned and transformed a tragedy into a triumph. How, as Michael Hyatt wisely advices, take a bad circumstance and ask yourself, “What does this experience make possible?” Broken Crayons Still Color – A Book My friend and mentor, Shelley Hitz, just released her newest book, Broken Crayons Still Color. Don’t you love that title? Shelley has poured her heart into this book and takes us on a journey … [Read more...]
Advent Adventures
Don't forget to join the Advent Adventure, beginning today on Facebook live at 2:30 eastern on my author page and learn more about this holy time. Monday the topic will be what actually is this season and why is it important? Tuesday: We will explore the themes and roots of this time in the church calendar before Christmas. Thursday: I will share lots of tips and resources and ideas to honor this season. If you can't join me live, catch the replay. On the video I will share with you exciting news about my new book and a free Resource Guide. Let's explore this holy season together. This year Advent begins November 27. … [Read more...]