Anticipation...

Remember that old ketchup commercial with the song Anticipation playing in the background? The message was clear: Some times things take awhile but good things are always worth waiting for!

This time of year, the air is filled with excitement and anticipation about many things. Sometimes we look forward to certain football games, which I'd rather not talk about, but mostly it's all things Christmas related Now that Advent has officially started, we kick that into high gear.

This evening I was fortunate to take part in an "Advent by Candlelight" event at my church. I had attended one of these with a friend at her church a few years back, but this was the first time taking part in my own church's event.

Our event is a "ladies only" opportunity. And I might add that the "younger set" like myself was under-represented. Maybe we can correct that in years to come. The way it's set up, each "hostess" sets up a table with elegant Christmas decorations and tableware. Ours looked spectacular! Then that hostess also provides a pre-event appetizer and a dessert. The appetizers were good and the dessert table offered plenty of mint options!

Besides musical entertainment from some of the young ladies of the congregation -- ranging from 8 to 18 -- we listened to a nice devotion about Advent and anticipation.

Good focus (and reminder) about concentrating on Christ's birth and second coming. It's no small wonder that when we focus our energies on shopping and preparing food, that the stress pushes the real meaning of Christmas to the back of our minds. Our challenge is to have a more spiritual mindset as we prepare for the special birthday.

It doesn't mean we have to stop shopping altogether. But if we are out shopping, could we pick something up for someone truly in need? It's fine to send out dozens of Christmas cards, too. But as long as we're sending them, is there a shut-in from your congregation or an anonymous soldier who would enjoy receiving one as well? This is what we mean about getting prepared.

When you are decking the halls, don't forget the halls of you heart. Are they ready to greet a king?

I know I have much to do, inside and out. Good thing we at least know the first time He's coming!