Happy December 20 to you! How many Grinches do I have out there, today a mere five days before Christmas? Now I understand that there are those who have troubles with the holiday's for family reasons and such but if you're just scrooging it cuz you're cranky and wish you didn't have to deal with anything this Christmas, then please don't.
I woke up this morning, as I do every morning. Mostly because if I didn't wake up each morning then I'd be...well not awake, I was thinking about what I focus on most this time of year. I found that the focus has changed over the years. I am older now and am very content to just have my family around me. It blesses me when my house is full, the fire is roaring in the fire place, and everyone is in conversation throughout the house. Suprisingly I am not all that bothered when I go Christmas shopping. Even when those beautiful blue haired old ladies drive up the back of my heel, mulitple times as I stand at the side of the aisle. Giving them cause to glare at me as those I stuck my foot out intentionally to slow them down in their shopping endevours.
We can choose everyday whether we want to be grumpy or happy. Regardless of what is going on in life, or what your situation may be we have the ability to choose how we respond. Often I talk of Paul the Apostle when I look at how to form attitude. More often than not Paul got the short end of the stick and rejoiced in the LORD anyway.
It is Christmas! A time to rejoice in the fact that GOD so LOVED the world that he gifted his SON to US. If we have the fa la la la la: GET OUT OF MY WAY focus on, we miss the essence of GOD and what he was trying to do for us. It's not about presents, it's about THE present. Now don't get me wrong, presents are fun! Yet is that really what it is all about? Are we healthy? Are our kids healthy, happy and enjoying life? Did a loved one make it back from the field of battle in time for Christmas? Did a family member make it through surgery this year? All are blessings to thank GOD for.
Did you lose a loved one this year? Is a loved one still on the battle field? Are you struggling as a family this year? Is that job still not available and you're almost at the end. The LORD can and desires to be your strength![Psalm 121]
This Christmas, no matter what your situation, may GOD richly bless you! May he mend your heart, fill the emptiness, give you peace and rest. May he hold you directly in the palm of his hands as long as you need him to. Look to Jesus "...The author and perfecter of our faith. Who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning it's shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." [Hebrews 12:2] And he is "The wonderful counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of peace." [Isaiah 9:6a]
Seek him out today, it will be the greatest gift you can ever give yourself.
If you know someone who is hurting this Christmas, bless them with a hug, a prayer, a cup of coffe. It's a simple act of kindness that shows Jesus in a real way.
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