Week Two of Advent : Compassion

I made it to church for the second week in a row! No kids in the car this time. This time I listened, sang and had time for just me to take it all in. The music was great. I admire people who can get up and belt it out without any hesitation. I, on the other hand can feel my throat closing up when I sing in front of anyone. I wonder why that is. I'm going to work on that. In the meantime, I want to talk about compassion and hope. Both were fitting themes for today. The service started out with a family dedication. A woman had adopted a young boy from Uganda and was dedicating their lives to God. The boy's name is Nathaniel, meaning "A gift from God." The woman was all smiles and indeed, he was a gift for her. The boy, maybe nine or ten was just plain funny. He was a little embarrassed being in front of the congregation but he smiled as much as his mom and radiated happiness. I think more than just happiness. I think hope. I don't know that details of their lives but in this moment, they were both so thankful and happy. It was a joyful moment for all who were there. It made me think of this second week of Advent. What can I do this week so give someone else a joyful moment? There are so many women I talk to almost everyday that carry some kind of pain with them. Some cry themselves to sleep each night. I know what sadness and pain are. I know how overwhelming it can be. At times there seems to be no way out and no light can reach you. I have always had people caring and praying for me during the rough times. I believe intercession can work miracles. For those who don't "pray" sending good thoughts is another way of wrapping someone in promise, in hope. I wish I could give "Hope on a Rope." I borrowed that idea from the speaker today. Let's give Hope on a Rope this week to all who need it. Watch for people this week to enter your lives who need this gift. I bet you'll see them. And by the way, I talked to the music director about singing with him! I'll let you know what happens.