You can't Pour from an Empty Cup

Good morning, 

We are built for communion. That fact has comforted me throughout seasons of busyness, navigating relationship-building post-college to seeking quality family time after chasing the hustle of daily living. 

When we rise above ourselves and pour into others, we are investing in ourselves (giving our time, performing acts of service, etc.). We are barely into November, and I have already felt the comparison/busyness/shop-til-we-drop/hustle/people-pleasing-monster rear its ugly head. 

By naming it and calling it what it is, I am presented with two opportunities =

Dive deeper into the things that will not fulfill me 

Or reset my Heart by rooting myself in Him 

Maybe you feel it too, it’s long overdue to take some time for yourself and reset. To quit hustling and jumping from one obligation to the next. To begin again. 

Here’s a list of encouragement for you - 

No, this is NOT a series of events to add to your exhausting to-do list that has far too few boxes checked. It’s a gift to yourself to show up better for your family, friends, and the best version of yourself. A striving daughter of Christ with eyes centered above and not consumed by the things of the world.

• Go to bed at 9 PM - turn off those notifications, drink some hot tea, no TV as you fall asleep

• Get off social media for 48 hours for reset/detox 

• For every piece of new holiday decor you purchase - donate 1 

• Eat something hearty and nutritious - protein and whole vegetables 

• Spend some time in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament 

• Take some of that PTO you have stored up. Give yourself a day at home to get your heart and home in order!

Maybe all you can do on this list is one small thing, but one small thing is better than none. I’ll also try my best to stay accountable. 

I listened to a recent episode of the Abiding Together Podcast. The message they shared was quite profound (per usual): “You can’t self-gift and self-protect at the same time.” See both episodes for an outpouring of encouragement. 

Season 15 Episode 6 Practical Aspects of Living out Community 

Season 15 Episode 7 The Sacred Heart - Dilexit Nos (Part 1). 

As we prepare for the journey of the Holy Family, I smile at the notion of Christ coming into the world in the smallest, most vulnerable state possible—a humble, tiny newborn baby. He is and was presented to us as a total gift of self. Our Savior subjected himself to every human emotion for our sake, walking through the brokenness of the world with a sense of purpose and mission—to save humanity and bring us all closer to our Heavenly Father. 

Deep sorrow - yes. Weeping at the tomb of Lazarus 

John 11:35

Frustration at how others are “playing the game” - check. 

Jesus driving out the market tables at the temple. 

Matthew 21:12-13

Struggling with His will vs. His Father’s - wow, yeah that happened too. 

Luke 22:42

Betrayed by a friend, with a kiss. Ouch.

Matthew 26:48-49

Mocked, belittled, and tortured. To bind Himself to the cross for my sake. 

Matthew 27:27-29

In whatever mental, emotional, or spiritual state you are in - You are Loved. You are Worthy. He is present. 

Forever grateful for this community and walking alongside each of you. 

Lady K’s One Thing: 

Bible Verse Jars—I have made these sweet Bible verse jars. Each slip is color-coordinated and matches various emotions. It’s encouragement to read a Bible verse when your emotions run high. Here are a few examples: 

Sadness:

The righteous cry out, the LORD hears and he rescues them from all their afflictions.The LORD is close to the brokenhearted, saves those whose spirit is crushed. Psalm 34:18-19

Anxiety: 

So humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:6-7

Anger: 

Better is the end of a thing than its beginning; better is a patient spirit than a lofty one. Do not let anger upset your spirit, for anger lodges in the bosom of a fool. Ecclesiastes 7:8-9