Advent Day 9

And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 4:7 (Revised Standard Version)

"God, I surrender to you all my cluttered thoughts."  These are THE UNCLUTTERED HEART words to carry with you for today. 

Is it just my imagination, or is it really easier to surrender cluttered thoughts to God than to hand over an entire cluttered existence?

My favorite people in the whole world are coming to visit soon. With Advent-like anticipation I look forward to their arrival. But I'm also nervous because there is no way I can de-clutter my house before they get here. Not to mention the front porch needs painting in addition to a plethora of other home repairs.

There's a strange balance between the anxiety of presenting oneself as a slovenly slob and the desire to do anything but clean up. Checking my email, wrapping and sending packages, morning Advent devotion, getting out Christmas decorations, watching favorite TV shows and crocheting, texting, blogging...they all call me to take a break.

In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. ~ Philippians 4:6  (American Standard Version)

I like this much better.  Talk to God. Ask for help humbly and earnestly. Thank God for making things right, or perhaps for shedding a new light on things that puts those things in the right light.

In conclusion, my friends, fill your minds with those things that are good and that deserve praise: things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honorable. ~ Philippians 4:8  (Good News Translation)

And the scriptures about God's peace all put together say:

In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.  And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. In conclusion, my friends, fill your minds with those things that are good and that deserve praise: things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honorable.

May you be filled with God's peace during Advent, Christmas and into the new year.