It’s here. Today is the day. I’m talking about the USPS guaranteed delivery of any First Class Christmas cards and presents—if mailed today.

Obviously, I am way behind in my Christmas preparations because I haven’t blogged about the first Sunday of Advent, or the first night of Hanukkah.

While it may seem like the same old stuff year after year, holiday after holiday, the Good News for those of us who struggle with daily do-overs is we have the opportunity to start anew. We can’t erase the past, but we can stop beating ourselves up with the shoulda, woulda, coulda’s of life.

If we’ve relapsed or lost hope, remember the optimism of Advent is still with us. Just as the story of Judah and the Maccabees steadfastness remind us of the power of never giving up, we all have the opportunity for a second chance. Faith in a Power greater than ourselves is the hope that can release us from self-imposed disrespect.

My prayer is that we adopt the faith of the Maccabees and Shepherds, and see ourselves as God see us, full of potential.

Yep, I am stepping up and accepting the gift of peace as I live my life – one day at a time – in anticipation of the fullness of His promises. What about you?

Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down … (Philippians 4:6-7 MSG).