How to Get a Mouse out of Your Vehicle this Christmas

     Did you know that mice like to build cozy nests out of beautifully shredded white paper towels? And did you know that if you collapse the back seat of your van, it naturally folds down to a cozy padded sanctuary made especially for furry field mice, creating a shelter from top to bottom and side to side? 

    Mice are positively enchanted with this set-up!  And did you have any idea that mice love to nibble on the roll of Smarties that escaped from your Spanish class treat bag? 

    These are the things I learned recently. 

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    So now let's add to the litany of creatures Bessie (AKA my 1998 Toyota Sienna) has hauled:  a piglet and a puppy, cats and hens, and now Midway field mice.

    And just how to we get rid of pirating field mice? 

    In one word:  Scream. 

  And not just any scream.  A blood-curdling, I-mean-business, get-out-of-here-right-now kind of scream that promptly sets all your neighbors' ears on the-world-is-ending high alert.  Yes, Mr. President, it is time to push the yellow button.   

    It works! 

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    So this got me to thinking.  Sometimes a few stray "mice" may take up residency in my heart and head, and I have absolutely no idea of their presence! Perhaps it is a good idea to ask God to help me do a little soul searching to see if there are any past hurts, issues of pride, fear, idolatrous longings....that may have sneaked in and set up house without my observation or awareness.

    For many of us, Christmas is the time when we unpack boxes of decorations, special dishes, nativity scenes, red and white candles, and untold memories.  We clean the house as we anticipate the arrival of our family and friends.  

    I am going to challenge myself this year as I unpack such treasured belongings and as I clean my home to do a bit of heart cleansing as well and to make a bit more space for Christ to shine His light in all the nooks and crannies of my soul.  

    Truly, I'd much rather sing than scream.   And if I must scream, at least He will be right there beside me!

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Joy to the world! The Lord is come
Let earth receive her King!
Let every heart prepare Him room
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven, and heaven and nature sing