Porch #26 * Grace & Space Edition


Lord Jesus,
Master of both the light 
and the darkness, 
send your Holy Spirit upon 
our preparations for Christmas.

We who have so much to do
seek quiet spaces to 
hear your voice each day.

We who are anxious
 over many things
 look forward to 
your coming among us.

We who are blessed
 in so many ways
 long for the complete joy
 of your kingdom.

We whose hearts are heavy
 seek the joy of your presence.

We are your people,
 walking in darkness,
 yet seeking the light.

To you we say,
 “Come, Lord Jesus!” 

Amen
- Henri Nouwen -




Yearning for grace and space right about now, friends?

Starting to feel a bit overwhelmed by lists swirling around your head, a jam-packed calendar, the uncertainty of the weeks ahead?  Undone shopping, endless menu planning, your rapidly emptying wallet?

All the Christmas things our family/church/community/culture deem important?

The demands on our time and energy stack up, layer after layer.  Much of what we throw ourselves into are self-imposed-shoulds.  Burdensome traditions that have long since lost their meaning.  Or assorted people-pleasing activities, reluctantly carried out with a heavy dose of sighing and grumbling.  

A frustration-fueled resentment simmers and builds as we say 'yes' even as our heart cries 'no, no, no.'

And it shows.
🎄

Maybe this will help:

1.  Grab a pencil and a pile of index cards or scrap paper. 

2.  Quickly write one task on each card.  10 or 100, whatever.

3.  Spread those cards out in front of you.

4.  Pick 3 to do today.  Just 3.  That's all.

5.  When you've completed your task, simply toss that card.

6.  Repeat tomorrow.  And the day after and so on.

You might be surprised at all you accomplish over the next few weeks.  And discover how much wasn't all that important to begin with.

Your sigh of relief is almost palpable, isn't it.

🎄

We make it our goal
to please Him.
 - 2 Corinthians 5:9 -

Each of you should give what you have 
decided in your heart to give,
not reluctantly or under compulsion,
 for God loves a cheerful giver.
- 2 Corinthians 9:7 -

🎄

The unsettling, riveting memoir by this acclaimed Christian writer is my hands-down 2021 Book of the Year.


My absolute favorite Christmas candle is 50% off.

Here's one scrumptious looking cranberry pecan baked brie {excuse the website's name}.

Mom loves this Thomas Kinkade perpetual Scripture calendar.  A perfect gift for fans of this Painter of Light.

A powerfully moving prayer for the broken-hearted.  Print it out.  Say amen.

This carol.  Because more than ever, we need hope.  And soul-soothing videos that calm our angst.

May you accept the grace and space He invites you to ... even as you extend His love to others ~
Linda

P.S. #1
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P.S. #2
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P.S. #3
I share Porch with Richella, Lisa, and Jeanne / Lisa J.