Advent

I love the weeks leading up to Christmas... "Advent."  A time of preparing room in our lives for Jesus.

But this year... I came down with a nasty, long-lasting cold, just as Advent was beginning... and I feel like I've been catching up ever since.  Yesterday, I lit my advent wreath for the first time (2 weeks late).  My little Christmas tree isn't yet decorated, and the big one is staying in the garage.  I still need to get our Christmas letter out.  Being behind has put me out of sorts for the season.

But then I remember... it's never too late to make room for Jesus.  And so, today... I light the advent wreath again, read some of my favorite passages of prophecy about the coming Messiah (Jesus), and take a deep breath.  Because... ALL of advent is supposed to be a time of preparation and welcoming.  Yes, by Christmas eve I hope to have the tree decorated and the presents wrapped!  But far more importantly... by Christmas Eve I want to be celebrating the fact that my God is a God who so wildly loves us that He left His throne in heaven, to come on a rescue mission to earth, invading the womb on a young girl, humbly being born as a baby.  It is far more important that my soul know and welcome this truth, than that the tree be decorated!

Today... welcome the Savior.  

“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord."  Welcome, Lord Jesus...