Holiday Travelogue

We have entered the third week of Advent on the liturgical calendar and are currently driving through the week of joy.

I started my Road Through the Holidays, in November, reading “thanksgiving” scriptures. In December I began researching the avalanche of information that can be found on the internet concerning Advent. I have been steeped in scripture, traditions, denominationalism and history. I have taken quizzes on the scriptures of the Christmas story, surprised when I didn’t make 100.

For the advent weeks of hope, peace, now joy, (and soon love) I am trying to embrace these characteristics and exemplify them. (I should poll my husband, son and co-workers after the season to see if I was successful.)

The initial objective is being met, spending time in the scriptures and “being still.” My holiday expectations have been reduced; a direct reflection of this new route. The rush from season’s past is missing. Do I feel like I’m missing out?

Stopping to ponder that question, assess my feelings, search my heart; the answer is no. There is nothing I’m denying myself. I’m enjoying this new route.

I’ll admit I’m waiting for that Christmas moment. A magical, spirit filled moment of revelation or insight. Perhaps that’s an expectation born of too many Hallmark movies but who doesn’t yearn for the moment when the bell on the Christmas tree tinkles and you know another angel received their wings?

Have you experienced that kind of magicial, Christmas moment?