Getting Ready/Being Prepared

These past few months we have been busy getting ready to move.  Drawers and cabinets have been gone through and cleaned out, furniture and items we will not need or have room for have been given away, and we have been packing.  Even some décor has found another home.  The more we can do now, the easier and more productive the moving process will be.

Lists of address changes, insurance policies, and other important items have been written on the growing “Things to Do” list.  It has been interesting to see which items can wait until later versus the ones that need priority attention now.

In the meantime, Chad, Lori, and their children have been getting ready to welcome baby number four to their family.  The Christmas tree and decorations went up the first weekend in November because that was when Daddy had time.  Newborn clothes and other items are washed and ready.  The bed is set up.  For months, the kids have been learning and practicing new skills in order to help each other when their brother or sister arrives.  And Larry and I are ready to go at a moment’s notice.

Especially now with all the hustle and bustle, busy schedule, preparing to move, and welcoming a grandchild, the importance of intentionally getting ready and being prepared for Christmas needs to be a priority.  The Advent Season, along with Advent calendars and Bible readings, help focus on the reason for the celebration of this season.  When that is kept in perspective, the other preparations will find their proper place.  In the New Testament, Timothy and Peter remind us of the importance of always being prepared, no matter what the season.   And I’m finding that it’s easier to be prepared when I stay ready.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Matthew 6:33

Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.
2 Timothy 4:2

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.
I Peter 3:15