Friend, Are you feeling  discouraged today? 

Let me encourage you to pick up the book "The Hiding Place" by Corrie Ten Boom. During my recent trip to Europe with my mom, we had the incredible opportunity to visit the Corrie Ten Boom Museum, which is actually her house in Haarlem, Netherlands. This is the place where she,along with her father and sister, hid several Jews during World War II and helped run the “underground” with the Dutch resistance. The experience felt like a holy moment, one of those instances where I realize that all the worries and stresses in my  life suddenly seem so small in light of such a great hero of faith. I need these moments to wake me and possibly, so do you?

In Hebrews 12:1-2, it says, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith." The scriptures prior to this one talk about being surrounded by witnesses who persevered through so much. Corrie Ten Boom's biography is a powerful example of someone who ran a race marked with great trials, hardships, and heartache, yet she leaned into the word of God for her source of life.

So, if you're feeling discouraged today, whatever is causing anxiety and worry, my prayer for you (and myself) is that you would be able to look outside of your circumstances - outside of your surroundings and find Hope in His word. That His word would become life giving for you as it did for Corrie. Hearing the historical account and seeing the space where incredible courage, resolve, and unshakable reliance on God took place was a reminder that I too can carry on and live life as a testimony to His saving grace and undeniable relentless love. It was a gift of perspective.

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I have just returned from the incredible opportunity of traveling through Europe with my mother. We embarked on a journey filled with exploration, adventure, and of course, indulging in the local cuisine and drinks. As someone who has spent years working on improving my health habits, this trip served as a reminder of the constant battle we face in maintaining positive habits. Habits show up everywhere and all the time regardless of our desire to acknowledge them or not. It can be frustrating and discouraging when old patterns resurface, but it also humbles me and allows me to empathize with others on similar journeys.

Habits in Motion:

Habits are not set in stone, as we often believe. They are fluid and subject to change. We have the choice to alter our habits for the better or worse. Sometimes, a healthy habit that has been working well for us suddenly falters, while an old, unhealthy habit resurfaces, leaving us feeling defeated and powerless. However, a single event, person, or experience can shift our focus and empower us to build something new, leading to amazing joy.

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In this moment, I find myself blessed with an extraordinary opportunity to embark on a journey with my 80-year-old mother, as I celebrate my own 50th birthday. Together, we are traveling the Rhine River, and every step of the way is filled with awe-inspiring beauty. My senses are awake, from the vibrant hues that surround us to the intricate architecture of the buildings, and even the tantalizing flavors of the local cuisine. Engaging with people who speak different languages is a delightful reminder of the diversity and wonder of God's creation.

Amidst this remarkable experience, one thing stands out to me: the abundance of cathedrals that grace each town and village we encounter. Ranging from modest and unassuming to grand and ornate, these sacred structures beckon us to explore them. It amuses my mother and me that after visiting one cathedral, we are irresistibly drawn to the next, even though they often have many similarities. There is an indescribable allure and beauty within them that compels us to step inside and immerse ourselves in their sacred atmosphere.

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We have this hope as an anchor, firm and secure. Hebrews 6:19

As the holiday season approaches, it becomes evident that a whirlwind of emotions and expectations accompanies this time of year. On one hand, we eagerly anticipate cherished traditions, joyful family gatherings, and the enchantment of witnessing young children experience the magic of Christmas. We look forward to celebrating the birth of Christ through the traditions, songs, and festivities that define this season. However, on the other hand, there can be an overwhelming pressure as we navigate family dynamics and the weight of unmet expectations. In a recent coaching conversation, I was struck by a powerful reflection that shifted my perspective and reminded me of the anchor we have in Christ.

There is a burden found in the word expectations. Expectations, when unmet, can leave us feeling heartsick. They can be like millstones tied around our necks, dragging us down and stealing our joy. Just like a millstone dropped into water, they cause us to sink, losing our breath and sense of direction. It is in these moments that we realize expectations hold no life for us. They only serve to burden and suffocate our heart.

During this coaching conversation, by God's amazing grace, we were able to shift our focus away from these burdensome expectations and turn our attention to peace. True peace lies in our identity as children of God. It was a beautiful reminder that Christ is our anchor. Unlike the millstone that weighs us down, He stabilizes us and holds us firm through any storm. Even when we feel tossed underwater, struggling to catch our breath, He remains our anchor, providing us with a sense of identity and an unwavering peace.

As we head into this holiday season, it is crucial to hold on to our anchor, our true north as my client said.. Christ is the one who stabilizes us amidst the unsteady moments. It is essential to recognize the expectations we have for ourselves and those placed upon us by family and friends as well. If left unnoticed, these expectations can steal our joy, suffocate our spirits, and become burdensome millstones. Instead, let us delight in our anchor, finding solace and peace in our identity as children of God.

So as you enter this beautiful and wonderful season of celebrating the birth of Christ, remember the anchor you have in Him. Amidst the chaos and unmet expectations, He remains the source of stability and peace. By embracing identity as a child of God, you can find solace and release yourself (and others) from the burdensome millstones of expectations. 

So, my friend, as you navigate the holiday season, hold on to your anchor, your true north, and allow Christ to stabilize you in the midst of the unsteady moments. May you experience the joy, wonder, and peace that come from delighting in Him.

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