December 2009

Unfailing Love (December 28 2009)

Without taking a personality test, it’s clear I am reserved. Sharing feelings, hugs, and situations leading to public displays of emotion are things I try to avoid.

Don’t get me wrong; I’m not afraid of these things. But I feel vulnerable and exposed—maybe “raw” is a better word—when what I really feel is obvious to everyone.

It’s so easy to get hurt, and people don’t seem to be very sensitive. It’s a lot easier to hide your feelings away so you can’t get hurt.

My Dog and the Apostle of Joy (December 21 2009)

I’m not happy right now.

As I write, there are far too many things to be upset about. I can think of six people that don’t like me, two that like me more than I’m comfortable with, and three I wish to see placed in an ailing spacecraft and blasted to the planet Zuphon 5. A minute ago I stood outside as the frigid Alberta wind cut through my thin cotton garments, screaming myself hoarse in an effort to coax my dog, Mojo, back to the house. She’s still AWL.

Intentionally discovering peace (December 14 2009)

December inspires images of peace. Of families sipping hot chocolate around a tree strung with popcorn and homemade ornaments. Of carollers bundled up, aiming simply to share the story of Jesus through the songs they sing. And of fluffy snowflakes falling so gently and peacefully that one wonders if gravity is a little weaker than usual.

Somewhere along the way, though, contrasting images of crowded malls, credit card bills, and traffic jams have pushed their way into our perception of Christmas.

There is Hope (December 8 2009)

“And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.” Romans 5:5

I’ve come to the realization I’m a sensitive person. And yes, it actually did take me 28 years to figure that out (or admit it). I can’t watch crime shows, or dramas, or horror movies. I just can’t handle them.

Duality (December 1 2009)

“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn.” Isaiah 60:1-3

Every December growing up, my church set up an Advent wreath with three purple candles, one pink candle, and one white candle. Then each Sunday before Christmas the candles were lit—starting with one, building to two, then three, four, and five.

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