Christmas time is here, happiness and cheer. Gathering family together and writing Christmas letters about all the year’s events. Sipping cocoa by the fireplace as the Christmas tree glistens in the background, Christmas carols dancing through your head, children snuggled next to you as you read your favorite Christmas book, the scent of sugar cookies fill the air… Ahhhh, that sounds delightful. Isn’t that your perfect Christmas moment? Mommy is calm, quiet, reflective, and radiating God’s love to everyone. Is that what happens in your home at Christmas time? Do you give yourself time to relax and enjoy this time of year? Do you find yourself wanting to savor the last few days of the year or are you counting down the days until you get to kiss this year goodbye and start with a clean slate? Are you full of the holiday spirit complete with glitter and jingle bells or are you suited up with combat boots ready to dredge through the Christmas shopping? Is there room for Jesus in your home at Christmas time?
God sent His son to be born on a night with no room for Him. Bethlehem was not ready for a savior and they had no room for Him. They were too busy with their own traditions, and family visiting. So they didn’t let Him in. There’s just no room, they said. God chose some quiet shepherds out in a field to share His wonderful news. The shepherds heard the angel’s news and they left their sheep to go a see the savior. Are you giving Him room in your home this year? Is there room as you teach your children about Christmas time? Are you reflecting His light as you prepare for Christmas? What does Christmas mean to you? It’s time for reflecting and remembering; remembering the gift God has given each one of us and reflecting on how you are using the gifts He has given you. I am reminded every day as I teach my children that they will either see Jesus through my actions and words or they will see my sin and shortcomings. This Christmas I want more than anything for my children to see Jesus in me and help them to be ready to make room for Him.
Turn to the person on your right and ask them if they have finished all their Christmas shopping? Then ask them how they are managing their holiday stress?
4 tips for stopping the holiday madness:
1. Take a time out- pray, read the word, take a walk around the block, admire the Christmas displays, read a Christmas book, and enjoy a cup of tea.
2. Learn to say, “No”. If you are feeling overwhelmed, it’s ok to skip a party or two. Don’t try to please everyone. Don’t try to do everything. Talk to your family about what makes Christmas special for them, keep the most meaningful traditions, and discard the rest.
3. Grab a pal. Sometimes, a good chat with a friend is all you need to get back on track. Make some phone calls, meet at Starbucks, or write a letter.
4. Stay organized: Those who plan peace have joy. Proverbs 12:20b Determine realistic expectations and communicate them clearly with kindness. May He give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. Psalm 20:4
God sent His son to be born on a night with no room for Him. Bethlehem was not ready for a savior and they had no room for Him. They were too busy with their own traditions, and family visiting. So they didn’t let Him in. There’s just no room, they said. God chose some quiet shepherds out in a field to share His wonderful news. The shepherds heard the angel’s news and they left their sheep to go a see the savior. Are you giving Him room in your home this year? Is there room as you teach your children about Christmas time? Are you reflecting His light as you prepare for Christmas? What does Christmas mean to you? It’s time for reflecting and remembering; remembering the gift God has given each one of us and reflecting on how you are using the gifts He has given you. I am reminded every day as I teach my children that they will either see Jesus through my actions and words or they will see my sin and shortcomings. This Christmas I want more than anything for my children to see Jesus in me and help them to be ready to make room for Him.
Turn to the person on your right and ask them if they have finished all their Christmas shopping? Then ask them how they are managing their holiday stress?
4 tips for stopping the holiday madness:
1. Take a time out- pray, read the word, take a walk around the block, admire the Christmas displays, read a Christmas book, and enjoy a cup of tea.
2. Learn to say, “No”. If you are feeling overwhelmed, it’s ok to skip a party or two. Don’t try to please everyone. Don’t try to do everything. Talk to your family about what makes Christmas special for them, keep the most meaningful traditions, and discard the rest.
3. Grab a pal. Sometimes, a good chat with a friend is all you need to get back on track. Make some phone calls, meet at Starbucks, or write a letter.
4. Stay organized: Those who plan peace have joy. Proverbs 12:20b Determine realistic expectations and communicate them clearly with kindness. May He give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. Psalm 20:4
God bless each and everyone of you this Christmas!
Love,
Kimberly LePore
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