Advent Devotional by Robin Ruhlman

Hebrews 1:1-4

The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.  (Hebrews 1:3)

The hustle and bustle of Christmas morning swoops in like a cold winter storm, especially if you share that magic with young children. The list of tasks to complete is long and exhausting, but the magic of Christmas brings a joy and fellowship to our home that is unmatched. I wake up early to start the coffee and tea and pop breakfast in the oven. John comes down and preps the trash bags, turns on the Christmas lights, gets the fireplace going, and starts some Christmas music. The boys know to wait at the top of the stairs until everyone is awake, even if that means waiting on a teenager to arise from his slumber (sometimes with encouragement).

The excitement and happiness that our family is fortunate enough to experience is exactly how it was done during my childhood. Hot chocolate, stockings, breakfast, gifts, music, and happiness. This stage of life doesn’t bring a lot of relaxing during our regular schedule or our holiday schedule. There comes a moment in the morning when all of my duties are done, and I can finally settle into a comfy seat, breathe a sigh of relaxation, and just soak it all in.

I imagine the Son finally sitting down next to God and breathing a sigh of relief. All of the work that had been done and finally being able to rejoice in the radiance of our Heavenly God. I wish everyone an opportunity today to find a few moments to truly take in the radiance of the morning and absorb all that the Majestic has provided for you this year.

Robin Ruhlman