Does December seem noisy for you this year? More Christmas clamor than usual? I am hearing tons of holiday preparation holler over the internet and piles of buy-buy-buy in my mailbox, television and radio. Why do we have to go crazy, getting bigger and bigger, and expanding more more more? Isn’t this supposed to be a peaceful preparation time for Christmas?
My inbox tings with another post about Advent. I don’t know if you noticed but many wonderful bloggers are writing about Advent this year. Great ideas. Seems like every one has something to say about Advent. Some with wonderful visuals and videos. Others with new music. Many with profound thoughts. All with the goal of opening my heart for this wonderful time of the year. I want to consume them all. Explore all of them. Yes, I end up being distracted and not tuning in my inner spirit to listen to God but only outwardly to what others are saying.
But like that overstuffed feeling you get after the Thanksgiving feast – I am too full to take in any more.
I am tired already. This year I am experiencing being jolted and not finding the joy. I feel the weight of too much noise, to-do’s and wants. I say it is time to stop, simplify and be silent.
How can I best prepare my heart for Christmas? My first step is to recognize and acknowledge all the clamor and pandemonium swirling around me.
I plan not to read everything. I will follow one and only one Advent devotion. I will choose not to do it all and be a picky participant of my preparation. I will be intentional about protecting my quiet time with the Lord. I will do the best I have with the time I’ve got and let go of the guilt, worry and trying to decorate, cook and party like the neighbors.
Note to self: This season is not about me and my ego anyway – It’s about Christ.
I am letting go of Christmas clamor.
Shhhh! I’m listening for God’s whisper.
Hush! I am lingering by the manger.
Watch! I am seeking God’s surprising appearance in the edges of my life.
Mmmmmm! I am tasting peace and quiet stillness.
Ahhh, I am discovering hope and rekindling joy.
Finally! I am being absorbed by Advent.
How is your Advent season coming?
I am not going to bake cookies this year–one step toward simplifying our Christmas. Actually, that’s a big step, since baking is quite time-consuming. But we don’t need any more treats, and the time saved will translate into calmer days–time to linger and listen in the peace and stillness, as you so beautifully suggest, Jean.
Probably healthier too, Nancy. I actually got the neighbors gifts made – keeping it easy this year and all the cards addressed – less than last year. Think all the gifts are bought so I should have some time for silence and stillness. I am beginning to think stillness or a word like it will be my word for 2015 – being really drawn in that area. Keep listening, Nancy. Blessings on your sabbath.
I long for a quiet, reflective Advent, too, Jean. There is so much wisdom in what you have written here. If we truly want to rest in the Lord at this time and wait upon His coming, we do need to step back from the fray and simply become His. Blessings!
Thanks Martha. I just am amazed how many people are talking about Advent this year – with some great ideas and point but knew I had to quit listening or I would explode. I am hungering for stillness and silence more than more info right now. Hope you find peace and hope this season too.
Honestly, Jean, I think I’m going to post one more entry, coincidentally a reminder to all that Christ is all we have and all we need, and then take a break from blogging until the new year. Needing to sit with Him as I rework my novels. Received the first one in the next series today, but it’s not yet on Amazon. Hope it will be soon and in time for the ease and calm of shopping from home and not exploding in the world’s rendition of Christmas.
God bless you for the inspiration you share and hoping your Advent season is one of peace, joy, and rejoicing!