During this Advent season, you might be juggling (as I am) children’s programs, youth service projects, volunteer gifts, staff parties, and more. The calendar is filled with many obligations and wonderful events alike, and if you blink, you might just miss the entire season! It’s happened before, maybe it happens every year.
What if, instead of simply going along with the same program and finding yourself victim to the blazing schedule, you were able to approach this season differently?
Psalm 100:1–5 is a wonderful reminder that this season is about God—and He loves and cares for you!
“Know that the LORD, He is God! It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.” —Psalm 100:3
God loves you, and this season He invites you to remember that just as the children and their parents are invited to see God in a new way this season, He also invites YOU to see Him anew! Friend, God’s love and care is abundant and specifically for YOU! This love and care is not based on your work performance or busy schedule. No, this is a gift to you from a God who would prefer to be your Shepherd—loving and protecting His sheep. God makes all things. He has this coming season in hand, and you are invited to serve with gladness!
What if this year was different? The calendar might still be filled with activities, services, and celebrations, but what if your focus was daily on the God who is able to do more for you and the people you serve than you are? Because, spoiler alert: He is able!
As we wake to each new day, won’t you join me in leaning into God’s Word, allowing Him to remind you of His love and care for you? Remember that “We are His; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.” Waking with thanksgiving each morning for all the ways God cares for you can really shift your mind from your to-do list to your thanks list!
We can serve Him with gladness and joy because He has already provided everything we need! I’m waking in thanks for all God is and does in my life and corner of the world, and I am so thankful for the ministry you are a part of in yours! Have a blessed Advent season.
Try taking a break from your hectic schedule and enjoy this Christmas word search [1] and coloring page [2].