See Grandma, my eyes are really dark blue....not big brown ones like daddy

See Grandma, my eyes are really dark blue....not big brown ones like daddy

Ryan and friend

Ryan and friend
Mommy, Daddy, I'm saying Hi to Grandma?

This one is for you, Grandma!

Nathan

Nathan
soccer with determination and no airplane distractions

Monday, November 18, 2013

The Season of Hope

Today I will compose a vegetable stew that will last for several days to be consumed with a wholesome bread. This preChristmas fast has become something special for my husband and me. The Orthodox Christians worldwide will enter into a period of reflection. We are fully aware that many will be celebrating Christmas by wordly standards, many of which we reject.

Christmas is simply not about goods and sale items. It is a beautiful and deep understanding of a historical event which changed the entire world and our lives. Because of Christmas, there will be peace on earth and good will toward men, as "foretold" by the angels. They will sing praises to God -Glorifying God In The Highest-"Joy to the world the Lord is come." The Word made flesh by a Virgin Mother, Jesus The Christ our Lord.

No longer are we just creatures of the earth, but in our acceptance of Him, become partakers and sharers of the heavenly abode, being the recipient of many spiritual gifts, life, peace and everlasting joy. Hope for all eternity, and above all, loved.

It's a journey...let us begin it once again and by our preparation, put on the cloak of kindness, generosity, understanding, gratitude, fortitude and trace the sands of time until we come to the place where Jesus our Savior lay. Where we, like the wise men will find our true purpose, and worship Him.

Yesterday, I heard someone say that Christmas has changed for her since she has become Orthodox and now, its not all about the decorations....It is so much more beautiful and special than all of that. Some of us don't even care if we have decorations...We do it for our grandchildren. Certainly, it is not about the parties or preChristmas anything. Any gift worthwhile is made better by waiting for it to come.

It begins, like it did for the Virgin Mary, when she was given the opportunity to say "yes" to God when the message, through Angel Gabriel was revealed to her. Simply, it is a message of acceptance--to put on Christ. The invitation has come, The package is soon to arrive. Now, we anticipate His coming.



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