Do you feel it? The weight of an ever-increasing to-do list and a schedule full of events. A looming rent payment and Christmas gifts to pay for. Groceries to buy. Casseroles to make for the office holiday party. Bins full of Christmas decor taunt you, eagerly waiting to be displayed, every time you open up the closet door. Do you ever ask yourself, how does Jesus' birth fit into all of this? 

“Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” - Matthew 11:28-30

In 2006, three pastors who wanted to approach advent differently created something new. They call it the Advent Conspiracy movement. They devised four tenets to guide themselves and their congregations through Advent. The four tenets are - Worship Fully, Spend Less, Give More, and Love All. Feeling overwhelmed by this season, I breathed a sigh of relief when I read this. I make this season more than it needs to be. Although there is much joy and fun to be had in the secular traditions that fill our schedules this time of year, I find myself becoming more stressed and exhausted because of them. As we continue in this advent season, may we too worship more fully, spend less, give more, and love all. I pray that you will experience joy and wonder as we eagerly anticipate the incarnation celebration that is to come! O Come, O Come, Emanuel. 

Many blessings to you and your family this Advent season.