I woke early, disturbed by churning thoughts around getting ready for Christmas. In light of past rushed Decembers (when I organized concerts and had many more child and work related events) preparations are minimal this year, so initially I wondered—why the angst? The present angst distracts me from the true meaning of Christmas, and affects how I focus on what is most important, even on my to-do list.
This morning my response was to listen to Steve Bell’s “Ready My Heart” song. (CD Christmas Feast, lyrics credited to Lois Shuford)
Ready my heart for the birth of Immanuel
Ready my soul for the Prince of Peace
Heap the straw of my life
For His body to lie on
Light the candle of hope
Let the child come in 
HOPE is the largest gift of Christmas and it is a gift meant for all.
As I look outside I see the winter’s beauty, but also recognize the icy shroud that surrounds many people’s hearts, especially those that have been snowed under by grief. The power of hope shall not be kept in fancy wrappings. It can be most present in the midst of angst, grief, and disappointment.
The Beauty of a frozen waterfall, the tragedy of an icy heart.
Light the Candle of Hope
He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree.
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