Welp, I didn’t start this Monday off right.
I got up on time, I exercised, I showered and made my breakfast. I even got the boys’ breakfast and lunches ready. I felt like I had it all together.
And then one boy complained about breakfast. Another boy refused to get dressed until he finished telling his story to another brother. All three of them were flying around the house like it was Christmas morning instead of a school day.
So I finally got into the car a little late and a lot grumpy. Then, I forgot a mask and had to turn around just a little down the alleyway and go home. Then, a car got in the right lane with no intention of turning for the full five minute light cycle (something I’ve definitely done myself but felt unforgivingly awful this morning).
And on, and on, and on.
I felt very unprepared after all. I guess in preparing for the day, I forgot to also prepare my heart. I know Mondays are stressful. I know that I will be a little more on edge getting to work and getting started after a week off… so knowing that, I should’ve prepared my heart as much as my body for this morning.
So I guess I’ll do that now. Will you join me? Let’s pause and look at this beautiful flower and pray. I love this Advent prayer by Henri Nouwen that’s about exactly that – preparing our hearts for the joy of God’s presence and the light we can then share with others.
“Lord Jesus,
Master of both the light and the darkness, send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas.
We who have so much to do and seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day,
We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us.
We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom.
We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence.
We are your people, walking in darkness, yet seeking the light.
To you we say, “Come Lord Jesus!’
Amen.”
Breathe in. Breathe out.
Now let’s begin.
