The advent passage for Day 3 is Isaiah 40:9-11.

Zion, herald of good news,
go up on a high mountain.
Jerusalem, herald of good news,
raise your voice loudly.
Raise it, do not be afraid!
Say to the cities of Judah,
“Here is your God!”
See, the Lord God comes with strength,
and His power establishes His rule.
His reward is with Him,
and His gifts accompany Him.
He protects His flock like a shepherd;
He gathers the lambs in His arms
and carries [them] in the fold of His [garment].
He gently leads those that are nursing.

I heard the refrigerator open behind me as I sat at the kitchen table. Suddenly, Matt yelled, “Lauren, no, no, no!”  And, that was the turning point of our day. Kool-aid streamed all over the floor and underneath the refrigerator, as well as soaking the drawers inside.

It took us much longer to get around to our Christmas Countdown time than planned. Instead, our frustration levels were high, whining pitches were even higher, and we experienced a bit of a revolt when we pulled out the Bible to explore our Scripture passage.

It’s these kind of imperfect parenting days that God as my shepherd means so much. The way Isaiah describes God tenderly cradling a lamb in His strong, safe arms and gently guiding His sheep is beautifully convicting.

Our Family Game Night ended up being a success despite all our shortcomings. Not a single board game was played by the rules, but it didn’t matter. And, hide and go seek was particularly fun!

On this third day of December, I am so thankful that God redeems our messes. That’s why He sent Jesus. Whether a Kool-aid spill or bad attitude, God is there to gently guide us through the clean up process.