There are several things that as an adult I love to do that my younger self could never imagine. One of those was that I loved to write. And I believed that I had at least one book in me. And I loved to write in a more conversational way as if I am sitting down with a person or group. It isn’t the conventional way we were and are taught to write.
We are taught to write in complete sentences, with proper grammar, and a minimum of three sentences in a paragraph. We are taught to not write run-on sentences. We are taught not to end sentences with prepositions. We are taught to make sure the subject and verb agree. We are taught not to change from singular to plural pronouns (I’m sorry I broke this rule in this article). We are taught not to begin sentences with and (I’m sorry I broke this rule too).
Following these rules led to my failing the first English class in college. Well, it wasn’t the only reason. There were more reasons. Like I didn’t study.
I loved to write words of encouragement to folks whether in a card or on social media. I loved to write articles to share via e-blasts or newsletters. But I lost the loving feeling beginning about three years ago. And yet, I still believe I have at least one book in me. What have you lost the love for?
I had to ask myself the question, “Why did I lose the love for writing?” Why don’t you ask yourself the question “Why have I lost the love (for whatever it is)?” You know what I realized? The joy was stolen from me by the enemy. So, I let others break down my confidence. I let others steal my voice. So, I decided to stop writing.
I found there was something deeper. The outward resistance created an internal resistance that I allowed to speak over God’s “why” for me. I focused on the noise not the “why.” This advent God is refocusing me on the “why.”
I spent these last three years not being ready to write yet. I am finding that God is reclaiming the stolen territory. He is restoring the love of writing during this Advent season.
God began this process in our alone time. The Holy Spirit pushed me to read and rewrite Psalm 136 through the lens of my life. I believe this will be my practice for the entirety of Advent. Give thanks, for God is good. His faithful love endures forever.
What is your advent practice? If you don’t have one, spend some alone time with God and ask him to lead you to a practice.
