Just as January 1st elicits hope in a new year, Advent, the begining of the liturgical year brings hope as we prepare to celebrate Jesus coming.

Most people are too overwhelmed & stressed out about shopping, decorating, gifts, wrapping, extra food, parties, family get togethers & cards to even think about taking time for themselves to prepare their hearts to celebrate Jesus' birth.

Yet, all you really need to do – all God asks you to do is prepare your heart, by renewing it and opening it to receive the gift he's given you - Jesus.

pressured to meet everyone else's expectations with get-togethers, food, gifts, cards, decorations

overwhelmed by all the extra responsibilities and expectations with gifts, decorations, food, parties and family gatherings.

like there's no time to really quiet your mind & prepare your heart for Jesus.

lonely or isolated.

disappointed and missing family, friend & church connections.

disappointed you won't be able to carry out or participate in holiday traditions due to all the changes in the last several years.

dafraid your healthy habits will be derailed with all the extra food, parties and other commitments.

Say no to those things that don't matter and yes to the things and people that are truly important.

Feel centered & grounded in God's love, peace and joy this holiday season.

Take a few minutes every day to focus on the reason for the season.

Connect with God in the moment and feel the love, peace & joy he offers you.

Feel more gratitude for all the blessings in your life.

Lower your stress & feel like you've ended this year on a positive note.

Find peace in your heart so you can pray often, eat well & move more.