We just ordered our first family portrait Christmas cards and I’m beaming with excitement. One thing I love is to go out to the mailbox and see Christmas cards. We have an area in our kitchen dedicated to displaying Christmas cards and event invitations. Do you have the same love Christmas cards too? (Let me know in the comments!)
This year is special for us because it’s our daughter’s first Christmas. We are full with excitement at her reactions to the atmosphere this season brings. So far we are loving her “ooo”s over Christmas trees, ornaments, and holiday decor. We’ve actually even got ahead in our Christmas shopping. I’m feeling great. But I feel a fight for joy.
As I was preparing our envelopes to send out, I couldn’t help but think of the those who aren’t having a wonderful year. Those who lost dear loved ones. Those who lost jobs. Those who are homeless or orphaned. Those who are struggling with financial hardships. Those who are simply struggling with the stress that sometimes comes to steal the joy this season brings. I am overwhelmed with compassion for all those struggling, for whatever the reason. Through the struggle in the valley, the victory on the mountain top, and everywhere in between, it is so important we remember to pause and include the source of all our joy, Jesus. This season is a reminder that life is all about Him, after all.
I thought I might share with you a few things I try to remind myself during the Christmas season:
1. It’s always about Jesus
2. Take time to refocus my mind
3. Giving should be cheerful and heart felt
Whether this season has been the best or the worst, if you’re struggling, or simply getting worked up trying to reach for the ideals of the season (or those marketed to us that we buy into), remember the true purpose of this season. Jesus should always be the center of this season and every day. It’s so important we do everything we can to keep our relationship with Him first, above all else.
Let us not to focus on what could be, should be, is not, will not, but rather focus on Jesus and count every blessing. I’ve had to make time to do this myself, so I started keeping a list of all the things I’m grateful for and as I need to take time and refocus I keep adding to it, reminding myself of all the good He’s given me in my life. This time to refocus and be grateful has helped me breathe, refocus and become even more grateful and enjoy every moment with Jesus and the world around me as best as I can.
When things aren’t going “my way” I take that as a warning flag, pause to stop focusing on everything I want, and everyone else meeting my expectations and instead think about how I can be a better person to everyone in my world, including to myself. We (and I primarily mean me) all have a tendency to lean toward selfishness and when things aren’t going my way, I realize all I’m thinking about is me.
Finally, taking time to give rather than receive. Maybe you too see hurting people around you. Maybe you too can do something to bring a little extra cheer. “They” do say, cheerful giving (of gifts, time or service) is good medicine. It’s another way to focus on others rather than ourselves.
If we walk with Jesus, are sensitive to His leading, search for the good, and be available to give, that creates an amazing atmosphere that brings out the best of this season. It truly is the most wonderful time of year!