It’s the most wonderful time of the year

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. I love the Christmas season. I love to give and take my time picking out the perfect gift for each person on my list. I’m finished with my shopping and I  am almost done wrapping presents. I use to procrastinate but planning ahead allows me to enjoy the Christmas season.

I love how I see the love of Jesus at Christmas time through people. People are generally nicer and children are more excited. People are giving. I love soaking it all in. I love the activities like the parades and live nativity stories along with so many other events that are special this time of year. I love making memories with my children. This week we are baking cookies, doing crafts, and attending a Christmas parade. 

Sometimes we can get busier this time of the year and forget to soak it all in. There were years that I spent so much time preparing dances to minister for a Christmas program that I didn’t have time to bake cookies and go to parades. I’m so glad I’ve slowed down and focused on what is more important. We are in ministry but my family comes before ministry. Our children are only little once. Before we know it they are all grown up and we can’t get this time back. If you are finding that your to do list is too long and you are missing out on the important things, find a way to slow down and soak it all in. No one is promised tomorrow.

We also have to remember that this isn’t the most wonderful time of the year for everyone. There are people that are grieving a loved one. The first holidays without a loved one are the hardest. If you have a friend who has lost someone recently, be sure to spend some time with them. It’s the small gestures like inviting them for dinner or baking them some cookies that could brighten their day.

Some people are struggling financially. Find a way to be a blessing to those in need. We are making blessing bags for the homeless. If you don’t have money to give, but you have time think about ways you can volunteer. Soup kitchens and food banks always need help. If you are blessed and can give, find a family in need of gifts for their children. Show Jesus by shining your light! 

And if this isn’t the most wonderful time of year for you, I pray that you will find joy this Holiday season. May you come to know the peace of God that surpasses all understanding. 

Happy Holidays!