Fourth Sunday of Advent and Nuts

I confess, I love nuts.

 

I haven't always loved nuts, but during the last few years, my affinity for nuts has grown.

 

I think the cashews with sea salt are my favorite!

 

Many people lay out spiced nuts on the Christmas table with the cookies and sweets.

 

 

 

St. Anthony used the three parts of the nut to assist people in understanding repentance.

 

 



 

 

Number 1, the skin is bitter, as is our sin. 

 

This skin splits when the nut is still on the tree, and, the nut falls to the earth.

 

It causes us to seek out forgiveness so we can be 'released.'

 

Number 2, the hard shell is a symbol of perseverance.

 

Penance can be a tough act.  You have to stick to it. 

 

In other words, you really have to work hard at getting to the sweet nut inside the shell.

 

 

 

 

Let's get to the heart of the matter, now.

 

Number three, the nut meat.

 

We are so estactic when we finally crack the nut to get to the good part!

 

This is comparable to rejoicing in our salvation and forgiveness.

 

 



I find in blogland, many people confuse St Anthony images with St Joseph.

 

St Anthony always hold baby Jesus (but sometimes so does Joseph).

 

St Anthony always carries a lily for purity (and, is dressed like a monk).

 

He holds baby Jesus because he offers our prayer requests to the little baby

 

and it is said the baby is very agreeable and has a hard time telling St. Anthony 'no.'

 

(He was also seen carrying the Infant in a garden, and together they were laughing and playing).

 

You can also ask St Anthony to help you find lost articles or assist you with financial trouble.

 

 

Sharing this week with:

 

Sharing with:

 

Nifty Thrifty Tuesday at Coastal Charm

 

Savvy Southern Style's Wow Us Wednesday

 

Common Ground's Vintage Inspiration Friday