“… the only thing that counts is faith working through love.” (Galatians 5:6)
Advent is a time of faith as we prepare our hearts for the birth of Jesus. We can demonstrate our faith by doing good things for people out of love. One way is to acknowledge others with specific appreciations, reminding them that they are seen and valued. When we notice and are thankful for the good things that people do for us and around us, we start viewing the world from a perspective of love and appreciating others more. We help our brains learn to use love as the default path, encouraging us to respond to the world with kindness and compassion. A lot can change when we lead with faith. Christmas is a great time to celebrate God’s love for us and our love for each other. We can show and share the love of God everywhere we go. A little appreciation goes a long way.
In today’s Wellness Wednesday, we learn a way to lead with faith.
Try this:
As a class, group, or family:
· Each day, share five appreciations. We can consider noticing and appreciating things that family, friends, colleagues, peers, teachers, school support staff, etc., do for us. Make the appreciation specific to something the person did, such as “thanks for sharing your extra art supplies with me” or “I appreciated when you let me go first in line” or “thanks for listening to me at lunch today” or “that resource was so helpful–thanks for sharing it.”
· For more ideas, check out these SMHO activities: o Elementary: “Pay It Forward” activity https://smho-smso.ca/fw/healthy-relationship-skills/empathy/pay-it-forward/ o Secondary: “Impromptu Thank You” activity https://smho-smso.ca/fwsecondary/positive-motivation-and-perseverance/expressing-gratitude/impromptu-thank-yous/
Ask yourself, there is no wrong answer:
How might it help in my life to appreciate others?
Is there a situation in my life that might change if lead with faith?
Connecting to our faith:
“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1)
The 2nd Sunday of Advent symbolizes FAITH with the "Bethlehem Candle" reminding us of the depths of Mary and Joseph’s faith as they made the journey to Bethlehem. Faith works through love. He demonstrated his love for us by sending His Son to be born. God wants us to walk in this love and share it with others. As we anticipate the arrival of Jesus, let's reflect on ways to prepare our hearts for His birth.
Let us pray: God of faith. Help us to love with all our heart, soul, and mind in all that we do. Let our love be your light in this world. Amen.
Further Learning:
· CHILDREN’S BOOK: “Love Is: Exploring the World Through the Eyes of a Child” by MaryLou Quillen
· ADULT BOOK: “Love Builds Brains” by Jean Clinton
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