My Advent JourneySample

Look In

To begin any trip, you must start where you are. Since this is a personal, internal journey, you must begin with yourself. Who are you? What makes you, you? What occupies your thoughts this holiday season? What are your longings?

We’ve all heard the phrase, 'It is better to give than to receive,' and certainly, that statement has a great deal of truth. During the holidays, we think about helping others celebrate the season. We painstakingly choose gifts, organise holiday events, and plan meals to show others our love and how we value them.

What about you? What are you longing for this holiday season? This is not an encouragement to begin hinting about that 'perfect gift' (if there is such a thing), nor is it hoping the perfect Hallmark Christmas might be curated. It’s about longing…personal longing.

What do you value most? What would emphasising that value during Advent look like? Over the next few days, you will have the opportunity to do just that.

Why do you do what you do?

'You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.' (Psalm 139:1-3, NIV)

Memories can conjure up all kinds of responses. There are sad memories, such as moving away from a childhood home or being ridiculed by classmates. There are wonderful memories, such as growing up with a family pet or spending summers on the beach. Christmas certainly stimulates memories, such as attending an annual Christmas event, decorating the Christmas tree, or even leaving cookies for Santa.

Today’s scripture speaks of being known by God. He is familiar with all our ways. Are you familiar with your ways? Think about special Christmas memories from the past.

• We hold onto certain holiday traditions for various reasons. What are those cherished traditions, and why are you drawn to them? Name one that comes to mind.
  
  
• As you think about this Christmas tradition, does it call up positive or negative memories, and why?
  
  
• Are you continuing to carry on this tradition? Why or why not?
  

Prayer: Lord, let me rest with what has been revealed to me today. Amen.