Our routine has been thrown off this week. I’m looking for something to blame – maybe it was a week of houseguests? Maybe it’s just a growth spurt? I vaguely remember having this same issue with Bea at this age… Whatever it is, I’m definitely not savoring these little years right now. When parents talk about teenagers sleeping in, it sounds glorious.
While I was lying awake at 3:00 this morning, I reflected that perhaps it’s not a bad thing to enter Advent weary. A handful of nights of interrupted sleep certainly isn’t the worst of parenting that I’ve experienced so far. I know that there is a light at the end of this stretch and that our rhythm (and sleep!) will be restored.
In the early hours, I thought of all the ways I cannot wait to see the light of hope, of peace, of joy, restored. When systemic oppression ends; when global crisis is recognized; when solutions are realized rather than sides taken; when victims are trusted and believed; when the hierarchy of hospitality is removed.
That’s what Advent is, right? This recognition of global groaning – the reminder that we need a hope and a new way of doing things. I’m entering this Advent weary and I hope to use this physical reminder of the spiritual anticipation this season brings.
How are you entering Advent this year? How does your physical space affect your spiritual space?
Linked with Five Minute Friday, a time to write without editing. Today’s prompt is “near.”
Annie Rim 
Annie, I’m right after you over at Kate’s and I’m very grateful to read your words this morning. Global groaning…amen to that. BUT, He is near! My Advent will include many holy pauses this season! #25
Advent is my favorite because we recognize the nearness in the midst of the groaning. Thank you for giving me the phrase, “holy pause.” I’ll be using that this year!
Howdy neighbor!
Oh, I enter Advent weary too – but because of a nasty chest cold that has taken hold and doesn’t want to leave. I love your picture of Advent as a time of groaning. Come, Lord Jesus!
My kids are 10 and 14 so the nights tend not to be broken now, but yes, different challenges face us. Makes me think of that say, the days are long by the years short. Enjoy!
FMF #23
Ugh! Hope your cold gets better soon!! There is nothing like being physically incapable to remind us of God’s promises, isn’t there? I’ve heard “small kids, small problems; big kids, big problems” but I’ll live in ignorant bliss for now and just imagine all the rest you’re getting. 😉
LOVE this Annie! My physical space seems to affect all aspects of my life. When that space is squeezed my anxiety rises. I’m forever needing to learn to turn those times into opportunities to stretch. {sigh}
Yes… When am I going to learn to guard my physical space intentionally, because it so affects my spiritual space? Thankful for those reminders…
Global groaning and the longing for restoration. I’m so resonating with this. My devotion this morning was Synchronicity; Before they call I will answer; while they are yet speaking I will hear.—Isaiah 65:24 The passage makes me think He already knows what we want so maybe it’s permission to let go and let things be…either way, we welcome the birth of hope.
Oh, I need that permission so often! I intellectualize God’s promises without fully living in them. Hoping with you, friend!
🙂
I’m definitely entering Advent weary so I appreciate this perspective that we can use that to remind us of a deeper truth and how much we need God. Visiting from FMF #35.
Prayers for rest and rejuvenation during this season of anticipation!
I too am a bit off. I posted on FMF as well today and I am not sure I did not pour that feeling onto the page. Then I realized I had it post to my Facebook. Oh well, it is what it is. I am looking forward to Sunday. I am set and keeping it simple. Just as you suggested.
Ha! It seems that being “off” must be this week… Perhaps it’s divine intervention to help us prepare? 😉 I’m glad you’re ready and can’t wait to hear about your Advent journey!
I think it the effects of too much Thanksgiving leftovers. 😁
I’m entering Advent weary too. But also intentional. I want to be intentional in how I approach each day—with Jesus. Intentional in my interactions—especially my family. Intentional in not over committing…again. I’m In need of some still times with the Lord. This seems to be a time of year when I especially see my need and Jesus’ “enough” that He offers so freely.
May your Advent be refreshing season, my friend!
Yes! I think this is what I love about Advent. As our house transforms its decor, its a tangible reminder for me to pause and be still. I’m looking forward to soaking in this waiting…
Global groaning…that’s a powerful image. Advent is my fave time of the year even when I’m weary. I’m in the 45 spot this week.
The more I practice Advent, the more I love this time of year. It refreshes my soul.
I’m entering Advent with ferocity and resolve. I’m going down hard, but I’ll make death pay for everything he’s taking from me on the way, by living each moment to the full.
No going gentle into that good night. I’m going to light up the world.
You do light up the world! I’m so glad you’re entering Advent fighting!