If we’re honest, thinking about the upcoming holidays probably invokes a variety of feelings. Many of us love the idea of celebrating with family and friends; all warm and cozy and Norman Rochwellish. The food is perfect, the decorations are better than ever and we ooze love and affection. A rich sense of peace and comfort envelops every family get together and harmony reigns. 

 

The reality, however, is that all too often we are stressed out, tired, cranky and disappointed. Loss, sadness and even anger sometime hang in the air and we feel like we’re “going to lose it." How then do we pursue Christ in our hearts and homes during this joyful, stressful, turbulent time? We look to the cross. We take comfort in the knowledge that if we are His, God loves us and has forgiven us. We acknowledge our neediness and remind ourselves that perfect holidays will never truly satisfy us. We examine our hearts and plead with God to grant us the gifts of repentance, forgiveness, contentment and peace. We intentionally take time to recount the goodness of God and rehearse what He has done. We give thanks to God in the midst of it all, knowing that He is present and at work in all of life’s circumstances.

 

Perhaps finding a new way or two to add remembrances of Jesus to your holiday celebrations will help not only you, but loved ones as well. We invite you to join us at the November Tapestry on November 21 at 7pm to glean ideas for finding meaningful ways to treasure the grace of God this Thanksgiving and Christmas. We’ll hear creative ideas that can be incorporated into your celebrations. We’ll share resource ideas and make a craft that will remind us of our unity in Christ. As sisters, we will pray that God will dwell richly and evidence Himself among His people this Thanksgiving and Christmas. 

Bring a friend or two and enjoy the sweet fellowship of women who desire to pursue God this holiday season.