I love to journal, doodle, and much more… in leading up to the beginning of December I was putting thought into what my title page for the last month of this year would look like, and from the random papers I selected to cut out and use, one happened to have pictures of pears on there!
This then seemed curious to me as it brought to mind the ‘Partridge in a Pear Tree’ song that is sung at Christmas. I looked up what a Pear symbolizes and found ‘divine sustenance, abundance and longevity’ – well I was really interested now so then went looking for more about the song itself.
Today, we have a ‘plethora’ (abundance) of information available to us through the internet and from the immense records of history we get to know and have a better understanding of what life was like centuries ago as well as all the twists and turns of decision making that has left us with the symbols and traditions of Christmas today.
Sometimes the reason behind the Christmas Carols would seem to be more worth it, if they were to be explained before we sang them. I don’t even think the person on the street would even know the first four books of the New Testament (Four Gospels – ‘Four Calling Birds’) if they were asked.
Due to my hubby purchasing me a ‘creative’ advent calendar this year, as my Christmas gift. I will be getting to enjoy 24 days of ‘creative’ surprises that may not be to everyone’s tastes, but I am very excited. Because of this novelty, it has spurred within me a sense of ‘SURPRISE’ and wonder for what my calendar will contain and how I will get to enjoy utilizing its contents.
As Christmas is about the birth of Jesus, I am reminded of how many surprises were actually part of their story / journey;
· Wise men going to Herod, asking about baby – Surprise!
· Jesus’ birth becoming imminent, and Mary had to deliver in a stable – Surprise!
· Angels declaring themselves and singing to shepherds in fields – Surprise!
I believe our Heavenly Father loves surprises and continues to find ways to show us that in our every day. So, if He has surprised us…
15-17 So, friends, take a firm stand, feet on the ground and head high. Keep a tight grip on what you were taught, whether in personal conversation or by our letter. May Jesus himself and God our Father, who reached out in love and surprised you with gifts of unending help and confidence, put a fresh heart in you, invigorate your work, enliven your speech. – 2 Thessalonians 2:15-17 MSG
Why are we not willing to surprise others around us this season with abundant surprises of love and goodness and see where God will use that to transform others for His Kingdom.
20-21 Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he’s thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don’t let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good. – Romans 12:20-21 MSG
Praying you enjoy a blessed and ‘Surprising’ Christmas this year and your heart is open to greater expectations ahead!