Hybrid Print and Pray Bible Journaling | The King is Coming | Matthew 1

Hi friends! I don’t really need to point out that December is just around the corner, right? We all see the holiday ads, maybe you’ve already scheduled an office party. Oh, and have you finished your holiday shopping? I’m actually writing this on the *actual* national day of shopping, aka Black Friday. Some people will shop until their legs fall off and by 9 am on Black Friday they will have purchased the perfect gift for every family member. Because a dedicated Black Friday shopper starts at Midnight, of course. By the end of the shopping trip, no cinnamon stick-scented candle or seasonal coffee mug (with or without coffee gift card) will be left untouched.

I admire their organization and determination. I’m more of an ‘order online and hope for the best’ kind of shopper. Or, ‘start a sewing project too late’ kind of planner. Or, ‘this gift card is the perfect size,’ kind of organizer. The thought of shopping in the midst of an ocean of strangers makes me feel nauseated. Just driving by the mall today made me feel anxious. Not a single parking space open. Think of the germs, people. Let’s all stay home. There’s free shipping online (probably).

I had the chance this week to play with Taylor Rauschkolb’s newest set in the Illustrated Faith Print & Pray Shop, “Behold, The King.” There are cute Advent cards, one for each day of December leading up to Christmas, and a set of elements. I started with Day 1, “Behold, your King is Coming.” Reading the lineage of Jesus soothed my anxious mind. I’ve already been feeling ‘behind’ and December isn’t even here yet. Do you feel this, too?

I’ve heard about a famous actor who keeps a photo clipping of the universe in their office. It’s a galaxy type of photo. The feeling of insignificance is calming to them, and reminds them of their place in all this. I understand that. To me, it would remind me that there’s a bigger plan out there, beyond my “to-do’s” and shopping lists. There’s a bigger overlying purpose than my existential ‘the company is arriving in a few days and no groceries are bought yet’ panic.

Reading the lineage of Christ makes me feel the same way. The Lord’s plan is perfect, and He’s got it all worked out. He had it all worked out from the beginning. I can stop and prepare my heart for the coming Christmas season. Preparing Him Room in the midst of all this. Readying my heart not only for the celebration of Christ’s birth, but the promise that He’s coming again. Amen! Friend, if you’re feeling a little holiday overwhelm, it’s time to stop and worship the One True King. All the rest of the stuff can wait.