Advent Word of the Day - Tenderly

If you know me at all or have read some of my posts before you know that movie quotes and song lyrics are my love language. I think I could have whole conversations using quotes and lyrics. When I bid farewell to someone leaving our home I will often say, “Have fun storming the castle!” When I feel particularly strong and sassy I’ll start singing, “This is me. Look out ‘cause here I come.” When watching videos and certain politicians or religious celebrities appear I think to myself, “You keep using that word, I do not think it means what you think it means,” or I’ll start singing, “History has its eyes on you.” (If you know any of these references we can be besties). 

So when I read today’s word, tenderly, the song “Softly and Tenderly” instantly popped in my head and wouldn’t leave. The chorus has been on a constant loop in my brain for the last 3 days. It is a song that is more than 140 years old and yet the words still speak to us today. Here are some of the lyrics:

This song has stood the test of time because the lyrics and the melody are a lullaby for the soul. Jesus isn't shouting at us like a demanding parent yelling for a child to come home after the street lights have come on. Jesus is giving us a gentle invitation reminding us that no matter who we are or what we’ve done or where we are on our faith journey, he will always be patiently waiting to welcome us home.

I need this right now. I need to be tender with myself when my plans don’t go the way I want them to (do they ever?). I need to be tender with others not knowing the story of their insecurities, irritability, or frustration. I need to be tender with the many situations that I can’t fix or control. 

 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. “ Matthew 11:28

As we move into the season of Advent I need the reminder to be tender, to slow down, and to come home to the hope, joy, peace, and love of Jesus.

Be Blessed 

Click HERE for a beautiful rendition of "Softly and Tenderly" by Carrie Underwood