Putting up the tree

It is a bit early for us to be putting up the tree but if we are having a Baptism next week then it had to be done. The tree is a real memory tree for us with photos of the 4 children and mementoes from all our holidays and even some home made decorations by Gran in 'bride and the 'children'. The reading for today is:

Second Sunday in Advent
Romans 15:4-13
4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope. 5 May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Welcome one another, therefore, as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. 8 For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God's truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, 9 and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written, "Therefore I will praise thee among the Gentiles, and sing to thy name"; 10 and again it is said, "Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people"; 11 and again, "Praise the Lord, all Gentiles, and let all the peoples praise him"; 12 and further Isaiah says, "The root of Jesse shall come, he who rises to rule the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles hope." 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.