Are You Waiting for Christmas? The Coming of Christ? -- Janis Cox

A Commissioned Painting from Red Mountain Women's Dinner

It is December 1st.  And I am writing this post. Tomorrow is Advent - the first week of awaiting the coming of Christ.

As I sat to speak to God this morning I picked up a devotional for Advent by Margaret Feinberg. The first week said: Waiting.

As I read the devotional and answered the questions I thought yes – we are waiting, waiting for the Christ. What a wonderful time of year to be filled with excitement to see the coming of Christ once again.

Then I read Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. And today it said: Wait.

So I waited to hear from God. And as usual He did not disappoint. He spoke to me about this time of year. 

To remember to SLOW down.

Not to rush or get into the hectic activity that can come with this season.

About 10 years ago we decided as a family to come together the weekend before Christmas. That would be our time together.

We also decided to choose to be less “secular” and instead of gifts for all the members we would only focus on the kids – and not go overboard. Just one gift per family per child – that is enough. The rest of the time is fun and fellowship. Laughter, stories, and just “hangin’ out” as my granddaughter says. We try to keep food simple with all the families helping out. Each year we get simpler and each year we have an even more joyous time.

What we don’t spend on gifts for ourselves we give to others. The little ones are learning the freedom of giving – an excellent example at an early age. A couple of the grandkids decided to forgo the gifts on their birthdays and ask for donations to other causes. Good for them.

Christmas is about the coming of Christ. Gifts were meant to be a gift of love but became a “what am I going to get?” instead. We have decided to give the gift of love instead of the gift of stuff.

How are you keeping your Christmas simple in order to enjoy the coming of Christ?

Waiting for the Coming of Christ - Christmas!

Janis, a former school teacher and small business owner, found a new passion in writing in her retirement. She has published a couple of devotionals and a number of articles.

As owner of Under the Cover of Prayer she writes often.

Her children's book, Tadeo Turtle, is now available. An accompanying curriculum can be obtained as well.

Email her at Janis or visit her at www. janiscox.com.