I do hope you took the time to do Week 46’s task of HaMakom…making your PLACE.  These last few tasks are going to take thought, contemplation and journaling.  The perfect thing to do in your special place!

Week 47’s task of 50 Weeks to a Lighter More Loving You is to STUFF YOUR STOCKING.

Many, many, many years ago, a dear friend of mine shared one of her family traditions.  Sometime during the Christmas season, each family member would take time to think about what THREE GIFTS they would give to Jesus.  They would write them down and put them in their stocking.

The THREE GIFTS were based on the Magi bringing three gifts to Jesus in the bible.

The gifts are not necessarily material things, but parts of their life that they would like to put in Jesus’s hand or something they’d like to do to bring more peace into their home/life.

Things such as…

• turning over concern/worry in regards to finances, school, a relationship
• better self-care in the area of ________
• be more grateful, compassionate, or kind
• a start of or increase in tithing
• reading their bible more
• more prayer
• more consistent church going
• be on time for things
• serving others
• being more patient
• making an effort to be a better friend
• saying “I Love You” more
• sharing toys with siblings
• looking for ways to make mom happy

They didn’t need to share what they choose with others unless they wanted to. The paper would stay in their stocking all year and be looked upon at the next Christmas to see how their gift giving went.

If it helps, use the Magi gifts as a guideline.

Gold

Gold is the metal of kings. When gold was presented to Jesus, it acknowledged his right to rule.

What is out of your control or do you worry about that you could give to God/Higher Power to make your life more peaceful?

Incense

Incense, or frankincense, was used in the temple as a form of worship.

What could you give to God/Higher Power or to your self that would show adoration, love, honor, care?

Myrrh

Myrrh was used for embalming. We do not know precisely what the wise men may have known or guessed about Christ’s ministry, but we do know that the Old Testament again and again foretold his suffering.

What in your life needs to die, so to speak, or sacrificed for you to live a lighter, more loving you?

What thing/thought do you need to say, “Remember, I embalmed that”  “It’s gone,” “that no longer is in my life,” “that once may have served me, but now I’m done with that” ?  (Maybe something you’ve been saying about your self that is not serving you or your life.)

This week your task is to STUFF YOUR STOCKING with THREE GIFTS written on a piece of paper and then put in your stocking (or other item you only bring out this time of year.)

Cheering You on to a Whole Stuffed Stocking Heart,
Barbara