A Little Advent

Advent is almost always a time of pause for me. These days, darkness swoops in early in afternoon and I find myself lighting a candle and putting Over the Rhine on the record player. I'm finishing up my pre-Christmas deadlines and waiting expectantly for a visit from my brother. But in some ways I feel like I'm holding my breath, waiting for 2016. But I know I can't hold my breath that long. 

Still, I'm taking my time pondering what I want "L" to be for in my A to Z series. I'm allowing myself to take that extra minute and burrow into my down comforter on these cold mornings. I'm saying yes when friends invite me to things, whenever I can. I'm trying to get back into yoga, hoping that will keep me from holding my breath. 

One of the ways I leaned into Advent this year was writing a piece for The Junia Project about the vulnerable women in Jesus’ genealogy. I love the fact that even though I’ve been reading the Bible for years, there is still more that I haven’t noticed. I’d be honored if you’d join me there. (And while you’re there, be sure to check out their free Women of Advent ebook. It’s a wonderful companion for the season. The link is at the bottom of my post). 

Last year, I recorded myself on video reading two of my favorite Advent reflections I’ve written over the years. It seems the right time to pull those out again and dust them off. I have one for you below and I’ll share the other one next week, along with some other reflections that have stood the test of time. 

If you’re still looking for a gift, or a meaningful way to celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas (beginning on Christmas day), there are still just a few of the devotional art calendars from Slightly Stationary and I available. (And there’s a deal if you order more than one). Click here to order (and stay tuned for our Lent calendar, coming soon). 

Wishing you a blessed Advent, and moments of pause, my friends. (And if you have an idea for “L” please comment and let me know.)