Well here we are, back together again dear kindred spirit friends, making our way through this Advent season, one week at a time!
I'm grateful to do life with you, especially during these uncertain, bittersweet days when so many are suffering. Fearful. Lonely. Grieving. Warmly empathetic, gently nurturing communities defined by kindness and encouragement matter more than ever, whether in person or online.
Maybe you've found that here? That continues to be my hope, my prayer, my purpose.
And if you're a first time reader, Porch is my fledgling weekend newsletter filled with hand selected snapshots and links, resources and random goodies, topped off with personal conversations with readers just like you.
Welcome.
When Jesus spoke again to the people,
He said, 'I am the light of the world.
Whoever follows Me
will never walk in darkness,
but will have the light of life.'
- John 8:12 -
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This is the loveliest ode to December's winsome treasures.
And here's CT's 2021 Christmas Albums Roundup.
Be sure to scroll down to ooh & ahh over the vintage Santa mugs.
The song, the video - breath of heaven, hold me together, lighten my darkness.
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I am the Light of the world! Many people celebrate Advent season by illuminating their homes with candles and decorated trees. This is a way of symbolizing my coming into the world - eternal Light breaking through the darkness and opening up the way to heaven. Nothing can reverse this glorious plan of salvation. All who trust Me as Savior are adopted into My royal family forever!
Bless you as we continue to journey toward the manger ~
Linda
✉ Coming next week? 2021's favorite books!
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Linda, I enjoyed your post here. Breath of Heaven is probably my all-time favorite Christmas song. It brings me to tears when I place myself in Mary's POV through that song. Your photos are lovely, my friend. They make me want to come and sit in front of your glowing tree and share a cuppa tea with you. :)
ReplyDeleteWouldn't that be wonderful! Maybe someday?
DeleteWill there be Christmas trees in heaven?
;-}
Can I get in on this party?
DeleteI have a feeling you'll be there, front and center! You bring the tinsel, I'll grab the hot chocolate.
DeleteSounds like a plan!
DeleteYou've certainly brought the light of Christmas into my day here, Linda. May your Advent continue to be blessed!
ReplyDeleteMore than ever, for all kinds of reasons, we're really craving that light, yes!
DeleteBlessings right back to you, friend.
The long night coming to an end,
ReplyDeletethe dying dog, no wagging tail,
and too soon I'll lose this friend;
oh, where, Lord, did I fail?
Not in care for health, I know;
in these I did my best,
but I let so much bright time go,
and thus I failed your test.
I strove to write, I strove to build,
I followed my ambition,
and in this it seems I've killed
what should have been my mission,
and I can never now atone
for sticks and frisbees left unthrown.
Oh, Andrew, it sounds like one of your faithful companions is leaving this earth ...
DeleteI'm sorry.
Thanks, Linda. It's always hard.
DeleteMy sister is here and her eyes began to fill with tears when I read her your poem ...
DeleteI'm so sorry, Andrew. Dogs can become part of the family. God bless you.
DeleteI like Chris Tomlin's Emmanuel song. I have also enjoyed listening to Keith and Kristen Getty's "An Irish Christmas." First time I have every listened to them other than "In Christ Alone."
ReplyDeleteThere's so much good music out there ... old and new. This is the season to savor it all. I love it.
DeleteHe must love it, too.
So much beauty here Linda! Refreshing, destressing, lovely!
ReplyDeleteDestressing. Yes, that's what we're craving!
DeleteThere's too much craziness going on.
I'm glad you found some quiet here, Maryleigh ...
Merry Christmas.
Lovely pictures and the Ode to December was the perfect reminder.
ReplyDeleteYes, Barbara's writing always stirs something deep inside ...
DeleteI enjoyed your pictures, Linda.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Lisa!
DeleteGreat cheerful photos. Thanx.
ReplyDeleteBlessed Advent to you and yours. God bless.
You, too, Victor. Keep safe there across the pond, ok?
DeleteYour photos are so warm and beautiful. Very loving.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you sense the love, Jeanie ...
DeleteBlessings on YOUR Advent season too, Love the beautiful photos
ReplyDeleteAdvent blessings to you, too, Jean. Thanks for speaking spiritual truths into my life this year. I'm grateful God has led us together.
DeleteThank you for these cozy pics and calming resources, Linda. I loved being reminded of Breath of Heaven. And yes, I definitely find your space here to be one of those "Warmly empathetic, gently nurturing communities defined by kindness and encouragement." :) Thank you. Love and blessings to you!
ReplyDeleteCozy and calm, our minds and spirits quieted. That's where we want to be right about now, yes?
DeleteMerry Christmas, sweet friend. I hope you are faring well ...
Linda, thank you for the lovely photos and for the sweet fellowship! Blessings at this most wonderful time of the year!
ReplyDeleteYes, there is a sweet fellowship here in the blog circles we run around in, isn't there. So poignantly put, usually a phrase we only hear in church circles.
DeleteThanks for bringing that spiritual insight to the table, Pam.
Breath of Heaven IS an inspired piece of music--heart-touching every time I hear it. And thank you for introducing us to www.onehopefulyear.com. She exertly encapsulated all the beauty and bustle of December in her observations. Merry Christmas, Linda!
ReplyDeleteYep, Barbara has a way with pen and paper ... each post is so refreshing and captures where I find myself in daily life. I do love sharing her work here.
DeleteAnd you're so right about that song, Nancy. It seems to touch most of us deeply ...
Merry Christmas to you, too. God has been so good to bring our paths together this last year. Thank you for steadily speaking His truth into my life.
Linda, love visiting you on the porch, such good, fun stuff here, not to mention the encouragement! Loved the santa mugs!!! I had one when I was a little girl and always drank hot chocolate in it on Christmas eve!
ReplyDeleteOh yes, I had one of those Santa mugs, too. It's nowhere to be found but I can still picture it bright and clear.
DeleteEmily's collection brings wonderful memories back to mind. I love her flair.
Oh Linda! You offer me your kind encouragement and support all the time! I so appreciate you pulling up a chair for me on your porch. I am humbled. You've introduced me to so many kindred spirits, and I thank you for your kindness. I hope you enjoyed the visit around my table at my virtual gathering this Thanksgiving! Blessings to you and your family this December. Happy Christmas!
ReplyDeleteBarbara, your writing continues to speak to where I find myself and so beautifully describes our day to day journeys. As soon as I find that you've written, I'm over there in a flash.
DeleteYour creative work inspires me to envision life's daily tasks and experiences with fresh joy. Bless you, girl.
Gently nurturing and kindness and more is why I follow you. Gail
ReplyDeleteGail, thank you. I am always glad to see you here. Merry Christmas to you, to yours ...
DeleteThe photos are beautiful and we all need the reminder that Jesus is the light of the world. The world seems so dark right now and so many people are suffering.
ReplyDeleteAnd suffering comes in so many forms, doesn't it, Amy.
DeleteI hope your weekend is filled with peace and rest. Thank you for coming into my life this year. Merry Christmas.
Linda, I collect Santas so I loved the mugs! And your focus on Jesus being the Light of the world … such a comfort to remember when our planet seems to be going off the rails in so many ways. It might seem dark but it’s really not because He is with us. Hugs, friend.
ReplyDeleteOff the rails, for sure, Lois! With no end in sight.
DeleteCome, Lord Jesus, come.
Oh how we long for Your appearing.
Breath of heaven is one of most favs! I love Santa's and have to really discipline myself in purchasing them. LOL! Love your mugs. So much hurt and grief are being shared by many right now that are near and dear to my heart. Prayers abounding for many. Hugs and blessings, Cindy
ReplyDeletePrayers abounding is our only comfort, hope, and peace. I love how you put that, Cindy ...
DeleteAmen.