Watch and wait
Thanksgiving is more that a week away, yet Christmas themes fill the stores. Eager homeowners display a plethora of festive decorations. Many (not just children) are in the watch and wait mode for Christmas.
Many years ago, God made a special promise to His people. I expect they went into the “watch and wait” mode, too.
“‘The days are coming,’ declares the LORD, ‘when I will fulfill the good promise I made to the people of Israel and Judah.
“‘In those days and at that time I will make a righteous Branch sprout from David’s line; he will do what is just and right in the land. In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. This is the name by which it will be called: The LORD Our Righteous Savior.'” (Jeremiah 33:14-16)
Advent
Therefore the LORD himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. (Isaiah 7:14)
We’re not far from the time of Advent, four weeks before Christmas. Those who anticipate the celebration of the birth of Jesus, watch and wait and prepare their hearts for Christ. Many use an Advent calendar or a wreath with candles, emphasizing hope, peace, joy, and love.
Are you preparing for the season?
Not just decorating or endless shopping, but seeking the meaning Christmas has for you beyond the materialistic emphasis?
Does exhaustion set in?
Is weariness a constant companion as you strive to buy perfect gifts, bake amazing treats, and prepare your home for entertaining? Does the true meaning of Christmas dissipate in the overwhelming countdown of tasks demanding your attention until December 25?
Prepare as we watch and wait
How can we prepare our hearts for Christmas? Possibilities include inspiration from music, reading, and some quiet time with our heavenly Father. I don’t have music to share with you, and I cannot promise you quiet time, but I do have books!
Below are opportunities to win three new Christmas/Advent themed books. New subscribers to my website and those who share thoughts in the comment section may participate.
25 Symbols of Christmas Finding Jesus, by Annie Yorty
Seeking to help us focus on the wonder, joy, warmth, and love for the true meaning of Christmas, Annie defines the meaning and history of 25 symbols of Christmas. She demonstrates how each one points to a spiritual truth that we can apply to our hearts and lives to refocus on Christ this season.
Redemption, The Heartbeat of Christmas: What the Birth of Christ Means to the World, by Barbara Latta
If we feel overwhelmed by the secular hoopla that leaves Christ out of Christmas, perhaps we need a fresh view of this celebration. Barbara Latta shares intricacies, symbolism, and Scriptural connections that show us how and why God transported redemption to a hurting world. Instead of becoming lost in the pressure to keep up with others in the gift-giving race, we can find the true gift of peace and joy.
Children’s Advent Stories for Bedtime, Julie and David Lavender
Both for children and their families, the Lavenders share 25 inspiring stories that help children understand what Christmas is all about. Beautifully illustrated, this delightful book includes true biblical stories, thoughtful Bible reflections, and prayers children can relate to. It’s a treat for the entire family!
Sharing the joy
Please feel free to share this message with others so they may have an opportunity to participate. Drawing for winners for these Christmas books is November 24. More giveaways in the New Year!
Blessings during this special time of year, Katherine.
Thank you, Diana. I pray God’s blessings for you and your family as well.
Thank you so much for including my sweet little book among these other wonderful books by two of my dear friends!!! I appreciate you. Praying for all to use this time intentionally to anticipate His birth with great joy and excitement!!!
You are welcome, Julie! As with each of your books, your knowledge, insight, and faith are an inspiration for us all. I pray for all the families who receive “Children’s Advent Stories for Bedtime.” I know that children and parents will enjoy and be greatly blessed.
What a wonderful collection of books! Happy Thanksgiving month! God bless you and your family.
Happy Thanksgiving, Melissa and family! I hope and pray you are feeling better.
Happy Thanksgiving and thank you for sharing these great books.
Wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving as well, Jimmie. So glad you had a wonderful trip.
Katherine, thank you for featuring 25 Symbols of Christmas among such excellent books. Such a blessing!
You are welcome, Annie. Your book is a wonderful way to learn more about our Christmas symbols and prepare our hearts for this special season. Peace and blessings!
Thank you, Katherine, for including Redemption the Heartbeat of Christmas in your giveaway collection. I am honored to be featured on your blog, and to be next to Annie and Julie, two amazing authors whose work blesses so many.
Thank you, Barbara. It’s an honor for me to have three great books to share from my favorite authors. I know the winners will be blessed by your book.
Winky, thank you for telling about these books. Hope to be able to read them. May you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving and make plenty of memories! I look forward to your blog each week. You are truly a servant of God!
I’m so grateful for your encouragement, Martha. Your kindness was just the bright ray of sunshine I needed to receive today. I hope your Thanksgiving is wonderfully blessed–I know it will be with your family gathered. And as you think of loved ones who aren’t with you, I pray sweet memories will flood you with joy. May God grant you peace, comfort, and happiness, dear friend.
Thanks Winky for your prayers and thoughts as well as encouragement!!!!
Amazing set of books and thanks for offering them as a giveaway. Happy Thanksgiving Katherine.
I agree, Yvonne, these wonderful books are an awesome giveaway. I know the recipients will be blessed! Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving, my friend.
Thank you. This was a great reminder, in these busseling times, that our Lord and Savior, Jesus, is of peace and that all we do should be to glorify Him.
I agree, Val. In all that we do, we should glorify our Lord. Not just at Christmas but every day. I’m so glad you stopped by. Happy Thanksgiving!
Thank you for your post and the recommendations about the books. I appreciate your faithfulness to post, Katherine.
Thank you, Joni. I’m grateful that our loving Father guides our writing and I pray that our messages bring glory to Him. You are also a faithful blogger and I appreciate your posts each week.
I’m learning to shop less and savor time with my Savior. My family and friends have more than they need, but I need more time with Jesus. Caregiving causes me to focus on the important issues of life and less on materialistic holidays.
I need more time with Jesus, too, Lisa. Your plan is a good one. Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas!