Thrive

The Holiday season brings with it a lot of emotions, expectations and experiences. I often will share with people that it is the most difficult time of year for our community because too often it’s the reminder of a lost loved one, bridges burned, and the burden of not having “enough” to provide the type of Christmas people are hoping for for their families. Regardless of the reason, this time of year brings some unrealistic (and often unhealthy) expectations that leave us feeling the opposite of what our Father hoped for, as we anticipate the celebration of Emmanuel, God with us.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Isaiah 9:6 ESV

We have all we need to thrive in this season, it may just require us to slow down, be still, count your blessings, serve, reflect….what is He asking of you?

Father, thank you for this season of advent which gifts us the opportunity to slow down and reflect upon what really matters most. Please allow what we know to be true in our minds to nestle down into our hearts, so that our words and actions can reflect what we believe to be true. Lord, you have given us everything we need to thrive in this season because of the gift of your son, Jesus. May this season be less about “things” and more about the people we get to be in community with. Thanks for the grace to surrender our expectations and the opportunity to rest in the glory and wonder of your intentionality to be with us.

Amen,

Ash