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.
Cara Strickland of Little Did She Know reads her Advent reflection: "Come Further In." Read the text (and more of Cara's work) at http://www.littledidsheknow.net/2014/12/12/come-further-in-an-advent-video/
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.)