CDPunt(igam) Writes

When my sister mentioned the Christmas Creep, I thought she was talking about that old stinky Santa on the corner of Main and 7th. No, turns out she was talking about having to go shopping for Christmas decor in the middle of October. Seeing all the jockeying and bargaining for the best, I realized I didn’t have to creep. All those things in the store weren’t actually Christmas. Yes, they are festive and cute, but Christmas will come and go without them. I set aside my grumbling about crowded stores and early sales; I tried to search for something more. Instead of searching the sales, I slowed down and took a breath, a moment to listen and hear the knock at the door. When I finally heard it and opened the door wide, what I discovered was the true treat. My Lord had been waiting for me the whole time.

This story is based on James 5:7-11

Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. Don’t grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door! Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

NIV: New International Version