Yes, yes, I know that Advent doesn't officially start until Sunday - but if the kids can start opening their little doors and snaffling chocolate today then I don't see why we should wait a minute longer. If only the internet could do chocolate with every blog post........ Mmmmmmmmm 😊I've been doing these blogs at Advent and Lent for several years now. Initially I started writing as a way of trying to give myself a focus on the run up to Christmas and I intended to use a bible-study type guide or at least follow some sort of structure or plan. But I pretty quickly discovered that this is not the way I tick :) And so the blog over time developed into an impulsive, creative, somewhat quirky and prophetic ( I think?) commentary on the things that I notice about my everyday life with God. It is interesting to look back over the years and see the posts which have had the most reads and shares. Without fail the highest statistics go to the posts which are the most personal, vulnerable and difficult. Which is interesting isn't it? Even in this age of hyper communication and Google solutions it seems that people still appreciate being able to share the nitty gritty of life in a safe and understanding place.
That's what I want blog 2017 to be. Somewhere that we can be honest with ourselves and each other about what our real lives are really like. As I grow older I am seeing more and more that there is absolutely no point in pretending. Or in hiding. Because we are all the same - all flawed, all wonderful, all incredibly resourceful and imaginative and creative. In being honest we allow others into our imperfections to bring their insight and comfort and help. Both in the messages following blog posts and in private messages behind the scenes there is the opportunity to cheer for each other, share our own thoughts and feelings and generally love each other.
So as we gaze down the barrel of December with all its craziness and fun I invite you to join me in listening to God, looking for His prompting and responding to the nudges of the Holy Spirit. It is an honour for me to know that you are reading this and that some of you will read every post faithfully over the next 24 days and be blessed by my ramblings. Amazing. Thank you.
