Heart Hope by Olga

The stockings should be hung by the chimney with care and reindeer landing on the roof instead of dogs (that as a story for another time) but instead my house seems to be in chaos. Yes, I know that Pastor Craig's sermon series this month is entitled White Serenity and it is meant to help us focus on a peaceful, worshipful season. That's what I want, but that is not exactly what I have.  Our condo has been overly crowded with people and packages; wrapping and toys; food and sticky notes all over the floor, placed strategically by a two year. I love every minute, even though it is far from serene.  Focusing on what is really important during this season and the message of hope and salvation that the birth of Jesus brings, can be accomplished even with chaos around. After all, think about the first Christmas.  On the beautiful Christmas cards we see each year, the scene looks picturesque, each participant perfectly placed. However if we stop and think about ...

What I had hoped it would look like The scene was not as I envisioned. The picture I had conjured up was one of peace and serenity at bedtime with all the kids snuggled up in bed with me imparting words of wisdom to them, but the reality was it was more like Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed - and One Fell Off and Broke His Head. There were actually only 3 monkeys, one dog and Grumps and no trips to the doctor, but the bedtime ritual showed lots of similarities. I had high hopes that I would be able to have teachable moments with the grandkids while we were keeping them, but it just didn't seem to happen at bedtime. However, there were other times that there were truths spoken. Walking through the neighborhood with Griffin we talked about God as the Creator of the beautiful flowers and leaves and trees. It seemed to stick as he brought it up on his own the next time we were walking and pointed out to me the purple and green leaves and reminded me of the morning g...