Get ready to unwrap the 2023 Saint Luke Advent Devotional Series: "All I Want for Christmas." This Advent, our blog becomes a portal to daily reflections from writers within our congregation, each sharing their heartfelt desires and dreams this holiday season. What do you want for Christmas? Our writers’ answers remind us that the most precious gifts aren't store-bought but emanate from the depths of our souls. We hope that these reflections are a blessing to you this Advent season.

Kicking off our advent journey is Jackie & Bill Bavier. Jackie coordinates Feast Incarnate, blood drives and helps with the Sunday snack and coffee cleanup. She likes to help with anything at Saint Luke that involves food! Bill Baver teaches confirmation class and has always been involved with Sunday School as well as helping wherever he is needed around Saint Luke.

Time with Family

Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace. -1 Peter 4:8-10

I know everyone says they want to spend time with their family, but at our age, my husband and I are really trying to spend quality time with our children and grandchildren. To be honest, the grandchildren. When we were parents with young children, time spent with them was combined with keeping a household running, work, school, activities, and various commitments. With grandchildren, we can just focus on them and what they like to do. No phone, no distractions. I love baking with my grandchildren, and it doesn’t matter how long it takes or how it turns out. We cherish the time spent with them (and their parents).

Thank you God for the gift of children, and grandchildren, and for allowing us to be part of their amazing life journey. Amen.