(from the heart of Delana Bradbury) 

 

When I think of Advent, my thoughts go like this…

“What, now? It’s too early!”

“Holidays = hustle and bustle”

“I’m not ready, there’s so much to do!”

My thoughts can launch me into an unhealthy flurry of activities, or rather obligations and self-imposed expectations that are nice, but not really necessary. I allow these things to bring stress instead of peace. Often, when Christmas is over I’m tired and feel that I’ve missed something.

Advent means: A coming into place, view or being. Arrival. The coming of Christ into the world.

This year, instead of the above thoughts, I’m choosing to settle my heart, and my mind, on Simplicity.

Simplicity is defined as: the state, quality, or an instance of being simple. Freedom from complexity.

Simplicity is what we often long for in life. You know, thoughts of unplugging from this busy pace and just being. Freedom from complexity. That’s a really good way to put that desire. If Advent means arrival and the coming of Christ into the world, why can’t I eagerly exchange the hustle and bustle of Christmas for the simplicity of Jesus.

If my identity really is secure in the truth that we are sons and daughters of The Most High God, then being caught up in the busyness is a choice I make. Instead, I choose to access the truth of my unconditional acceptance in Christ and make that my starting point for the holidays.

I choose simplicity over flurry.

Romans 8:16 –17 says, ‘The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ…’

Jesus is far from simple, but I’m choosing to access the beauty of the simplicity of Christ. Sure, the cookies will be made. Parties will be planned and attended, but my spirit will go through this season in a place of acceptance and love in the beautiful, simplicity of the love of Jesus for me and through me.