Advent is not only about longing for Christ to come again and put everything back together; it's about repenting and receiving grace so that we get to be put back together now.

A culture separated from God's wisdom over the centuries must surely provide lures that will destroy and distract from Him, from what is eternal, from what is true. Yet, to throw away those things which are not necessary, I must constantly be straining my ear to His voice and not to the voice of those who would draw me to vanity or more strife of busyness.

Real influence comes all the moments of the ways we live our lives in front of our children. It is not just about passing on doctrine, but as much about relationship, love, beauty as it is the concepts we teach them.

Today, sweet mama, you are building a gift of love for yourself that will bless you your whole life. Cherish this season with your precious ones, cultivate some delightful moments that will fill your heart and theirs. Watch it grow into something beautiful.

David seemed to understand the need for himself to restore and saw God as the source leading him beside still waters and restoring his soul. His shepherd heart valued nature from years of walking amongst the hills beside his sheep, enjoying sunrises, evening stars and the vast artwork of nature.

Embracing ideals that matter always comes with a cost, and yet, the giving of our rights and expectations to serve God and to follow His will is always worth it. God's ways change us, deepen our faith, build humility, teach us the value of love and perseverance and of course deepen our appreciation for the life and model of Christ.

Sometimes we don't realize how much life and duty have drained us and how much we need filling. But it isn't the activities, "things" or accomplishments we need—it is the real live moments of relationship and loving one another well, to be heard, to feel close and understood that create the type of relationship we all long for.

Today, after a series of unexpected adventures and plans, Joy and I had the opportunity to visit this amazing historical home where part of one of our favorite film series was filmed. Join me today to hear our story. What a day of deep delight and whimsy as we spent hours exploring this wonderful place.

On my podcast today, I tell a story of when grumpy mama me had to retreat from a bad attitude so that I could fully enjoy a precious moment to experience joy and laughter with my young children.

The changing weather whispers, "change is coming, your days are shorter than they used to be." With each leaf swirling delicately toward the ground, are reminders that we all have limitations to the story we live in life, I see the autumn more clearly than ever before.

Join me today on my podcast as I pursue joy in the darkness.