Advent officially begins today. It is that glorious season of waiting before the joy of Christmas. It's a time of preparation, much like the secular preparations of shopping, baking and decorating. Unlike the materialistic frenzy of the holiday season, Advent allows us time to spiritually prepare. Each year, I wish to have to have a good Advent, one where I am not rushed or hurried or stressed. I desire to have the peace and joy that the season promises. It's a matter of focus. I can let myself be caught up in the madness and frenzy of the secular side of the season.
4Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths.
5Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long.
Psalm 25
Today's Psalm provides focus for the season. Lead me in your truth for me is to focus on what I need to focus on spiritually this season. This season of waiting, our family is planning on service projects over the next 23 days. It's a great life lesson for my son, and a chance for our family to bond.
As a family, we made a decision on what we wanted to do to make the world a better place.
One cause that we are passionate about is animal rescue. All of our animal companions have been adopted from an animal shelter. We are making pet treats and toys for the Sioux Falls Humane Society. The other cause we are passionate about are kids. My son will be making cards for the kids at Children's Care Hospital, and as a family we will help, too.
We collect food for the food pantry year round. When I go grocery shopping, I always pick up a few extra items for it. It's a good object lesson for my son, to remind him how blessed we truly are.
This winter, The Banquet, our local soup kitchen, is collecting underwear and winter gear for those in need. We serve there several times a year as well. Little Man is too young to serve on the line, but he can help bus tables and fill napkins and utensils. It's a family job! 
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