Preparing with rejoicing

Preparing for Christmas can be a fun time of working together and sharing, but some of the preparation, including scripture reading and prayer, can sometimes seem onerous. When we are busy it is often hard to find time to joyfully prepare our hearts for Christ’s coming.

For me gift wrapping is hard work. I do not know why I don’t enjoy it, but I don’t, even when I mostly use gift bags. Watching others open presents brings me joy but wrapping them does not. What part of your preparations do you find joyless? This Advent I will try to rejoice and be thankful as I prepare gifts to be given.

When we stop and think of the miracle of love and forgiveness that Christ brought to earth, how can we not rejoice! Rejoicing in the wonderful gift of our Saviour helps prepare us for the celebration of Christ’s birth. We can rejoice by praying, singing, reading God’s word, and by worshipping and rejoicing with others.

Thank you, Saviour, for the gifts of love and forgiveness. Help us rejoice in your gifts always. Amen. — KIGN