The Hustle and Bustle of Christmas

The Hustle and Bustle of Christmas

Hustle and Bustle: "Activity of a crowded place or situation."

"So, I commend the enjoyment of life, because nothing is better for a man under the sun than to eat and drink and be merry; for this will remain with him all the days of his life ." Ecclesiastes 8:15.

Christmas is my favorite holiday and typically December is my favorite month of the year because of the spirit of Christmas. Unfortunately, it can also be the most stressful time of the year and this stress can quickly lead to a burnout. If we aren't careful about our busyness we  will get caught up in a whirlwind of meaningless activity. We can get so busy that we miss all the little important extras in this season. The beauty of the day, a smile of a friend, a hug from a loved one. It is often the smallest pleasures and gentle joys that make the most lasting difference. It's the quiet holy feeling of love as we reflect on the birth of our Savior Christ Jesus. Take time to notice your day is sprinkled with blessings. Take time to sit and bask in His goodness. Take time to start your day in God's Word. Your cup will be full when all the hustle and bustle rolls around you. Enjoy the season! 💖

"Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth, peace and goodwill towards men." Luke 2:14. 

"Things may come to those who wait, but only the things left by the Hustle." Abraham Lincoln." 

Sweetest Blessings

Jo

Traveling Mercies

 

Traveling Mercies

When our travels are filled with Divine protection.

"Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have ask Him." 1 John 5:14-15. 

Travel...This is the season to travel. Being able to travel is a blessing, but it can also heighten anxiety and stress because there's always the reality of  an accident. Statistics teach us there is no guarantee we will be safe. I have to confess that I have struggled with worry when my loved ones are traveling. I pray, but I  still worry. The next time fear creeps into your thoughts after you pray for traveling mercies, think about how many times God's mercies may have saved you from a tragic accident. We are human and do not have the ability to see into the Spiritual Realm, but, if we could, we would see Heaven's angels all around us battling the enemy of our souls for our lives. Stop worrying about the potholes in the road and enjoy the journey. The Lord will keep you from all harm." (Psalm 21:7). Safe travels friends. 

"I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go." Genesis 28:15.

All our travels are preordained with divine protection!

Sweetest Blessings,

Jo

The Gathering Table

The Gathering Table

"Forever on Thanksgiving day the heart will find a pathway home."

"For where two or three are gathered in my name, there I will be among them.” Matthew 18:20.

Thanksgiving... I LOVE Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving is like a big, warm hug! It's a precious opportunity to reflect on the abundance in our lives and express heartfelt  gratitude for all that we hold dear. The historical roots around Thanksgiving paints a picture of friends and family gathered around the table to celebrate and show gratitude to God for that years harvest bounty. Today, this long ago memory of early Thanksgiving celebration looks much different. Oh, the celebration with family and friends is still there but sadly, this sacred holiday has lost many of its religious roots. I wonder, how many of us still say grace before this special meal? No matter how small something is, if seen as a blessing, it's huge! So this Thanksgiving I hope you and those around your table will find a way to give thanks to our loving, grace-giving God. If you are a hostess or a guest and no-one says grace...be a grace giver! 

"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever." Psalm 107:1.

"If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is thank you, it will be enough. Thankfulness is the quickest path to joy."

Sweetest Blessings, 

Jo