As we continue with our holiday preparations, we are reminded of a special event, one so significant it split time in two – B.C.- A.D.
In recalling the birth of Jesus, we might examine our own reason for being here on earth. I believed that we arrived on this planet to grow, learn and fulfill the outline that God dreamed for us the day that we were born.
I often think of Oscar Wilde’s words about the two most important days of your life, which are the day you were born and the day you discover why!
Measuring up to God’s plan for us sounds like a monumental task, sometimes appearing overwhelming. The ideals of perfection drilled into our heads growing up in strict families, coupled with high expectations from cultural norms, weigh heavily when compared to the end point.
But on my spiritual journey I learned that certain expectations put forth by religion skewed my approach to life. God does not expect us to get it right every time. In this life we only have our “learners’ permit” and learners learn slowly by trial and error.
So on this journey, if not perfection, what does God really expect of us?
First we must keep our big vision of what God has in store for us. We cannot have our faith and hope be eroded or worn down by the difficulties that are part of life. Remember the best is yet to come. FAITH.
Secondly, we must listen within to where God is telling us to go. Our GPS is God’s Pulley System showing us the way. Trust your gut. HOPE.
Thirdly, Never quit. Never give up. Even in the midst of repeated failures and disappointments, God is there for us. Even at our bottom when all looks lost, God is there with His promises to help us fulfill our destiny. LOVE.
So in our holiday preparations, let’s renew our own sense of purpose. Let us know and rejoice that we ARE fulfilling the dream that God had for us the day that we were born.
Enjoy these holidays as a beautiful reminder to embrace this life lived in faith, hope, and love.
