Advent

Today marks the beginning of advent. Advent is defined as: the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event. For Christians, we celebrate the arrival of God coming to Earth in the form of His one and only son, Jesus. This was, and still is, a significant event. He came to save each one of us. “The Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). He longs to have a close, personal relationship with His children. Jesus is our hope and our promise of the good things God has waiting for us in eternity. "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." (John 10:10) What will you do as you prepare for the advent season? Will you put Christ at the forefront as you prepare not only your homes for Christmas but also your hearts?

Contentment

It took me years to come to a place in my life where I am content. As Paul says in Philippians 4:11, I learned to "be content whatever the circumstances." What is the secret to finding contentment? First, we must become confident in who we are: Children of the One, True King. "Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God." - John 1:12 While I wish I could say this confidence always existed, it too took years to cultivate. I had to clear away all of the debris the world left heaped upon me. I had to learn that it isn't my outward appearance that makes me beautiful or worthwhile. Rather, it is my heart, God's word hiding there, and His love shining brightly from my heart that make me beautiful. When I learned to see myself through His eyes rather than the world's standards, I was able to not only be content in being His child but I could also share His love with others. Then, I had to learn to "rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances" as 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 instructs us to do. When I am faced with a very bad pain day, I give God thanks and rejoice in the blessings He has given me. When I sing praises to Him, I am saying "[His] grace [and love] is sufficient for [me], for my power is made perfect in weakness.” When I am at my weakest, His strength, mercy, and love come shining brightly through me and bring Him all the glory, honor, and praise. When He is glorified, I am content. That is what life has taught me thus far.