Some of us take our children to a location where they can cut a perfect Christmas tree. Some of us make lists that include the perfect gift for each person on that list, and then check it, not just once but twice, three times or until it's the perfect fit for our loved ones. Some of us prepare by baking the perfect traditional sweets or do advanced preparations for the perfect Christmas meal. No matter what, it's a busy time of year.
I recently read an article about how everyone is society is "so busy." So busy that this "busyness stress" can actually slow us down and even create health problems. The article stated that it would be much more efficient if we made time in our life to reflect on what is truly important. The concept was, if we make time to talk to God on a regular basis and we truly share with him our joys and concerns, it gives us the gift of reflection. We stop our treadmill of life and reflect on what it really important in our daily activities. All this reflection will give us a better direction for our true beliefs. Many of us are going so fast that the concept of slowing down to think about why we are actually doing that activity doesn't even occur to us.
That article made me LOL! Hasn't our Christian faith told us that all along? How d id we get off that path? Don't our careers require us to reflect and create goals for future performance? Why have some of us stopped being so unintentional about our personal reflection and quiet time with God?
Advent begins Sunday, Nov. 30th, 2014. It's the true season of preparation but not for the Christmas that society wants us to experience. This season is the preparation for the coming of the Christ child. The child that broke down walls, offered hope, gave to those in need and gave love to all so freely. Just imagine if our reflection time with God focused on those elements. It would make life so much more simple, peace-filled and love-filled. Taking time for you and God is not selfish time, it's a very healthy preparation time for you and your loved ones.
Wishing you a simple, peace-filled and love-filled 2014 Advent season!
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