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 Advent 2024

Outside the air temperature takes your breath away. The cold air settles and brings a stillness to nature. As churches prepare for Advent, the first flames are lit up on the Advent wreath. A shining light through darkness, but also a flame of warmth as the cold blankets the earth. Hope for all those dreading winter. Hope for all who are sick. Hope for all those struggling. Hope because a baby was born that changed the world, and we wait for the second coming.

I personally love the Psalms. Today's Psalm 25 reminds me of where my hope comes from. "To you O Lord, I lift my soul." When I do this, I ask God to teach me and guide me on this path journey. Each year I am reminded of the babe that was born in a manger that gives hope to this world still. I prepare to celebrate the love of any new child by preparing my home and my heart. The instructions of God's words help me to create boundaries on my path. 

Taking care of a newborn is demanding. Taking care of our faith is also demanding. Care comes with a price. Yet the rewards are out of this world. Me, as I begin this Advent season, I am reminded to slow down and take in all the joy, lights, and preparations and to lift my soul to the Lord, as I begin Advent on the path...

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