Well the advent calendars are going well - however we keep forgetting to light the candles, the house is STILL a mess and the decorations are not up - maybe I'd better get off here and get my butt moving!  I think the presents are just about done (though not wrapped) and I just need to worry about food.  I've been asking around for ideas on feeding on a budget and I think we'' ll get there (I may even write some advice about it).

Amid all the stress two things have put it all in perspective - one the death of a friend of my husband's (see blog earlier this week), leaving his family one short for Christmas and reminding me that life is not eternal and we need to be aware of the wider picture.  Take joy in every day with your family and friends, keep in touch and express how you feel.  Be mindful of those who have lost as Christmas can be very painful.

The other thing was one of those chance events that remind you that there is a purpose in life.  A friend called me and asked if I would come round and read the Bible with her.  We didn't know what to read and decided on Esther - a very powerful story and one of the books of the Bible that never mentions God - weird!  Anyway the short version - a nasty man full of hatred and pride condemns the jews to death and through Esther they gain a reprieve.  They are full of rejoicing and celebrate.  They determine to make their celebration (purim) a national celebration that will remind them of their salvation - they feast and give gifts.

And I thought, is that not what Christmas is - a celebration in our "rescue", the joy of no longer being under death sentence, of being loved by the almighty God.  That is how we should rejoice & celebrate - and remember!  Not bitching about the expense and who goes where and all the other things (real though they are) that bring Christmas down to a nuisance or a difficult time. 

So I for one needed a change of perspective and a new lease of joy in this season.  Now I am trying to think of ways we as a family can make it a joyous time of celebration.  So I am determined to relax, give thanks and try and make this Christmas one of joy and remembrance.