As we dive headfirst into the holiday season, I wanted to take a moment with you all to reflect on the essence of Advent. It's a time of anticipation, a season marked by the arrival of something or someone special. And what could be more special than celebrating the birth of the one and only Jesus Christ?
Now, I know we've just wrapped up Thanksgiving, a day when we express gratitude for everything we have, big and small. It's a beautiful tradition that warms our hearts. Yet, the very next day, it seems like a switch flips, and we find ourselves caught up in the frenzy of Black Friday deals, scrambling to snag items we may not even need. I'll admit, this year, I joined the online shopping madness—guilty as charged! But hey, I did need a new computer, so that's my defense.
Isn't it a bit ironic, though? We spend a whole month (or thereabouts) being intentionally thankful, only to succumb to the allure and seduction of more material possessions. But, hey, no judgment here – I did it too. Let's share a chuckle about the quirks of being human.
Returning to the heart of the matter, Advent invites us to look forward to something truly extraordinary—the birth of Jesus Christ. A man of few means, born in a humble stable, surrounded by animals and hay for a bed. It's an image that tugs at my heartstrings, thinking about a baby lying amidst prickly hay.
Yet, Jesus, despite his humble beginnings, grew up to be the greatest healer, counselor, mentor, and influencer of all time. Born into a carpenter's family, he understood the struggles of those with limited means. Jesus understood pain, the loneliness of broken life, and poured into those who were different, less than, and honestly considered disgusting to humanity. His life was a testament to the power of presence, human touch, and compassion.
Jesus, a teacher like no other, employed puns, similes, metaphors, and proverbs—innovative techniques in his time, that I must say, was not the traditional way of teaching. As a mentor, he invested deeply in his disciples, transforming them into "fishers of men." There's so much wisdom we can glean from his life—lessons in connection, the importance of seeing and valuing everyone, and the profound impact of compassion.
So, as we rush to complete our shopping, decorate our homes, and fill our calendars with holiday gatherings, let's not forget the true reason for the season—Christmas Day, when tradition tells us Jesus was born. Advent is a time for family and friends to join together in the excitement and anticipation of this miraculous day.
Starting this Sunday, December 3, 2023, let's embark on this Advent journey together. Now, I'm not an expert on the "rules," and Jesus might chuckle at the concept of rules in religion, but tradition tells us that Advent begins on the Sunday closest to St. Andrew's Day and concludes on Jesus's birthday. So here we are, preparing to celebrate the birth of the greatest healer, influencer, counselor, friend, and brother of all time—Jesus himself!
If you're seeking a bit of adventure, hope, peace, and comfort, join me over the next 22 days or so over on my instagram @worthy.heart It is sure to be a enlightening time full of lessons, love and hope.
Together, let's revel in the anticipation and celebration of the birth of Jesus, the true embodiment of love. Happy Advent, dear friends! And always remember—you are worthy of love. After all…That's why HE came. Because YOU ARE WORTHY! Cheers to the season of joy, love, and worthiness!