This month’s Silencio is entitled “Christmas Presence” and points to the hope-filled priorities of Advent, a season for focusing our hearts on waiting, watching, wondering and witnessing…

…So what is it about this time of year that births a sense of hope and anticipation in your heart and soul? Is it the large “to do” list, with trees to decorate, shopping to complete, and holday events to enjoy? Where does your desire for time alone with God fit within that list? It seems especially challenging to find the time to linger, pray and notice God during Advent and Christmas when we’re simply too busy checking off a long list of must do’s.

Let me suggest a few simple ideas to practice the presence of God: 1. Make corporate worship a priority and purpose to engage in your faith community’s expressions of joy and hope with an awareness of the empowering presence of God…and give him the thanks he deserves; 2. Choose a handful of times to set apart 20-30 minutes to simply be alone and quiet before the Lord, attending to his presence and power in the inner sanctuary of your soul – read a small portion of the Word aloud and linger with that passage prayerfully and reflectively; and 3. Take time to notice the beauty of God expressed in his creation, in the lives of those who surround you, in music that uplifts the inner spirit, and in the God-given gifts in this unique season of joy. Wait, watch, wonder and witness – with hope and joy in Jesus.

Behold the presence of God – believe he is everywhere present to comfort, counsel and care – belong to those who are full of faith this festive time of year – become aware of God’s love like never before.

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