The newspaper and tv are packed with gift ideas. So much so that I just get turned off to the idea of giving. So much commercialism and consumerism. And then there are editorials and articles about giving of one's time to help in the community or in the family.
We were the recipients of a beautiful gift of time from family members last night. They called and said they'd like to take us to a Christmas light display in an area of the city we are not familiar with. (We are new to this city and driving at night to new places is a bit intimidating-especially after 13 years in very rural America.) So we packed into their large SUV, Mom driving, Grandad in the front passenger seat, Baby Joe, Jeremy (baby's dad) and me in the back seat. This outing was to show us the lights and to hopefully delight Baby Joe with this Christmas adventure.
As one might expect, the baby fell asleep in the car seat as we drove to the display. We grown ups- oohed and aaahed-and the baby slept peacefully.
But the even larger gift was to watch Jeremy as Baby Joe fell asleep. As Baby Joe's eyes grew heavy, Jeremy softly stroked his cheek and then cradled his head lovingly in his hand. He clearly cherishes this child.
These moments of silence, the gentleness, the expression of love were a true gift of Advent. In Advent we are to be still and watch for Christ's presence in our daily lives.
Where are the quiet signs of Christ's love in your day?
Blessings-Penny
No comments:
Post a Comment