Act 26 - Bake on

Today I was absolutely gutted to not get my bake-on on. All day I had planned to make brownies but it never happened, and then I ran out of time to pop to the shop. What my disappointment helped me do was focus upon how difficult it will be to do 40 Acts when I go to Easter School from the 19th up until Easter Sunday. So I'm planning an Easter school generosity kit- cards, treats, booze, pens...whatever small thing I can think of to spread generosity. We're in a tricky place course-wise; weariness has set in. We have the weight of responsibility and accountability knowing we'll be ordained in 3 months, yet still have assignments and tutorials to complete. Then there's the practical stuff such as getting vestments and organising the appropriate paperwork. TLC is required, so Easter School generosity here I come.

Be More Friendly

I'll admit I don't feel that friendly right now! It's been a long and difficult day but I've tried to stay amiable despite everything.
I meet new people everyday at work- patients, relatives, visitors, colleagues from other areas or departments and if I'm having a bad day it's not their fault. I try to be as friendly and helpful as I can, even if inside I could scream!

Leviticus 19.18

You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against any of your people, but you shall love your neighbour as yourself: I am the Lord.

He gives strength to the weary

Dog walks are a really good time for me to reflect and pray; it's just me and Lucy the beagle and I find it easier to focus than most other places.
This evening I was reflecting upon the things I'm not happy with and want to put before God before Christmas. It's been one of my most difficult years for quite some time due to home and work circumstances, and this coupled with ordination training has meant there's been times I didn't know how I could continue with the stress and anxiety each part of my life was causing.
Of course those were the times I was trying to do it all on my own, forgetting or neglecting that it's only in God's strength that I can achieve any of it. This is the thing I'm most regretful of because all the times I've failed, got things wrong or been a bit (or lot) horrible has been when I've not remembered who and what my strength comes from.

He has delivered me out of all my trouble

It was my last night at college for 3 weeks tonight and I think I'll be grateful for the break! My assignment is pretty much done, and I'm tired. My Advent meltdown still hasn't arrived, but it's looming- starting the feel the pressure of needing to write cards, tidy the house, put up decorations and make Christmas treats.
I need to keep focused on the fact of Christmas not being about those things, but that's easier said than done.