This week it’s Halloween, next month Thanksgiving, and check your calendar but December brings Christmas. The stores are hard pressed to remove the pumpkins, put out the Thanksgiving décor, and all the while be ready for the biggest of all – Christmas. Yes, I know this all comes from a secular view of the season, but this is our world, and unless we keep our eyes shut all through Walmart, this is the view we will see.

I’ve never been good at last minute preparations. In order to celebrate a meaningful Christmas with my family, I have always started early. Often I began in the summer or early fall, finding hand-crafted items that make thoughtful gifts and support local craftsmen. I’ve been otherwise occupied this year, but I did put together a book – a collection of family remembrances – that I hope will be meaningful to my kids. Psst, it’s a secret so don’t tell them – I’m pretty sure none of them read the Joy blog.

If I have family here with me on the holidays, that will be delightful. If not, I understand. If I’m able to put out a hearty family dinner, that will be a joy. If not, well age takes its toll and we’ll roll with things as they may be. We recognize that being a “certain age” brings changes. I’m sure many of you know this all too well.

But take heart my friends – the unconditional love of our Lord Jesus never changes. Yes , He will be here with me even through the silliness of Halloween. He will hear my heart-felt prayers of Thanksgiving, when that November holiday rolls around. And when the Advent season begins, He will welcome our penitence as we prepare for the the grandest holiday of all, the birth of our Lord Jesus.

Welcome the season – the Lord walks with you each and every step of the way.

Judy