Tis the Season, falalalalalalalala

What2Say2Day? It's here! Like it or not it's here. This is the time of year everyone's emotions begin its race to a feverish pitch. Welcome, my friends, to (insert buh buh bummmm) The Holidays. I know Thanksgiving hasn't come yet, but it is only a couple days away. I know it feels like Halloween just happened; get over it. I know you've just begun calculating if you have enough saved up to get all those important gifts for all those important people and have come to the realization you'll need to use the credit cards - again. I know, I know, I know...but ready or not it's here. Put up the trees, hang the lights, and look for the ribbons, bows, wrapping paper, transparent tape, and gift tags. Go shopping for your new party outfits and be sure to get the matching shoes. Oops, I seriously hope you have your turkey because it takes forever to defrost in the refrigerator. Oh, and that reminds me...I still need to buy cilantro or my stuffing won't taste as it should. Had enough yet? In the months before Jesus was born my guess is that the lives of Joseph and Mary and the unborn Christ-child were just as hectic as ours are at this time. Imagine having to uproot your family in the middle of all you're going through, taking only what you can fit in your family car (Joseph and Mary had a donkey), and relocating to a place where you don't really know anyone and definitely don't have anything (except what the donkey brought). Now, think, think harder, does this story remind you of someone? Or, does this story remind you of you? Joseph and Mary knew beyond any doubt God was with them. You need to know, beyond any doubt, that this same God is with you. As the "Holiday Chaos" begins, try your best to remember the "Christmas Message" that when we receive Christ as our constant partner and friend through life we will also receive the hope, peace, joy and love which comes with it. During the season of Advent I'll want to focus on this theme: Christ is already here and we're just not seeing it. For today, though,  Happy Thanksgiving, my friends. Go into the world and find a way to make someone's life just as thankful as yours, OR allow someone to make your life thankful by accepting the gifts they want to give. This Sunday is the first day of Advent. Have fun this weekend, enjoy being surrounded by family, friends and a few strangers. Then, think about how Christ has brought you hope, and how you can also do the same for others. I'll need to take the next few days off due to obligations (such as a job) and I will see you on the other side of this weekend.