a farmhouse Christmas.

I desire a simple and holy Christmas this year.

A release of excess and rushing.

White space on our calendar and in our home.

Many things about this season may demand significant time and emotional energy, but we don’t do ourselves or anyone else any good by burning out… Resist the cultural call to Do More! Buy More! Go More! Fight back with purposeful times of rest. Imagine getting to the end of Advent refreshed and recharged.” – John Ray

I desire joy.

Joy found in Jesus Storybook Bibles and handmade ornaments.

Joyful laughter during Santa visits and Christmas parades.

Joy sparked by quiet moments before dawn, steaming mug in hand, watching the glow from the Christmas tree lights.

Joy in a new perspective, joy in the innocent awe of the season as seen through the eyes of my four little people.

The joy of the collective viewing of classic Christmas movies in front of the fire with a giant bowl of popcorn in hand.

Joy caught within the magical gleam in little eyes as we drive through town in search of the best Christmas light display.

I want to slow down enough to really be present. I want to live generously. I want to pay attention. I don’t want to miss the Spirit’s promptings or the miracles unfolding right before my eyes.

I want to find beauty right in the midst of the mess and imperfections.

I want to approach the manger quietly, gently and humbly.

I want to joyfully read our Advent devotionals and punch out little windows revealing tiny chocolates. I want to worship together, joyful voices lifted around the glow of the tree.

This old weary world is certainly awaiting a Savior. The pain and suffering around the globe and close to home is real and heavy. I want my heart to reflect the Hope and joy found only in Jesus.

{My favorite Christmas gift this year is already displayed in my kitchen. A foil print of Grandma Marrs’ Strawberry Shortcake recipe (in her own handwriting) from Minted.com. This was supposed to be waiting under the tree for Dave to open on Christmas morning but I couldn’t help myself. I had to display it right away. It brings joy. At a time of year when Grandma’s presence is so dearly missed, this little piece of her is with us in the kitchen, right where she would’ve been.}

May these next ten days be filled with joy and reverent awe as we soak in the lavish gift of grace given tenderly in the form of a swaddled babe in a manger.

 

**I’m joining The Nester’s Christmas Tour of Homes today. Please take a moment to read her full post HERE… she does a beautiful job detailing how we can live generously by helping families fleeing Aleppo by supporting the work of the Preemptive Love Coalition. <3