It's December 18th.
Six more days until Christmas Eve.
Part of me wants to panic as I realize I haven't wrapped the first gift.
I haven't even finished shopping.
But what would that change about today?
When does anxiety ever change reality?
When does worry ever bring peace?
I'm trying to embrace the holiday season this year.
Soak up every minute.
Cherish every shared laugh with family and friends.
I sometimes slip, inviting stress to join me on my journey toward Christmas.
When I do slip, I remind myself of just how silly I become when I allow "me" to replace "Him" in my actions and words.
Alone, I focus on my needs, my expectations, my "to do" lists.
I fill my time with "me-centered" activities.
But when I choose to be quiet,
everything changes.
I hear His voice in the laughter around me.
I feel His love in the hugs of my friends.
I see Him in the twinkling lights,
longing to brighten and make beautiful not just the holiday season but every single day of every single year.
As I venture to work today,
I want to be quiet and listen.
I want the craziness of the countdown to Christmas to be replaced with a serene sense of the season's significance.
Today, take a deep breath.
Soak up every conversation, every shared moment with those around you.
Be still.
Listen.
Shhhhh.....
a silent and holy night is nearing.
Don't rush it.
Don't stress over it.
Embrace it.
Cherish it.
Be thankful for it.
Make this choice today and see what happens -
"Be still, and know that I am God."
Psalm 46:10
1 Comments:
Yes! I have been so close to freaking out due to not having my shopping finished either, but I don't want my Christmas to be about stress.
I want to meditate on what Christmas is really about, and it always boils down to love. Love from a baby come to earth, and love from that baby who grew into a man and gave His life for us.
Like you, I want to smile at the laughter of my friends and family, and enjoy just being.
Thank you Tammy for being such a beautiful blessing in my life. It's a Christmas gift to call you friend.
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