I find myself frustrated at the end of the Thanksgiving break. I really did not have a break. It was a hectic week filled with cooking, cleaning, high school football and band, work, and volunteer projects. I was more drained at the end of the “break” than I was when it started. Looking back, I am not able to capture one moment where my family and I paused to enjoy each other. In true confession, 90% of the busyness was self-inflicted, and I continue to struggle with balance (that is a blog for another day). So this week, I am writing to encourage you and myself mostly to take some time this Christmas season to be present.
Earlier this year, as I worked on the 2020 Advent Guide, I spent several weeks researching Mary, the mother of Jesus. In fact, as we wander through this crazy year, I often find myself reflecting back to her. I can picture her in the quiet moments of life, recalling personal moments with Jesus. You know those Mom and Dad moments: when you notice the color of your child’s eyes, when you hear their giggle from afar, when you watch them across the room, and you are quietly proud of who they are becoming. Mary had those same moments:
But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.
Luke 2:19 (NIV)
These moment are little gifts to be treasured, but I caution you. They are also the moments to be easily missed. We can be so busy making the “perfect” experience that we miss them. We can be so busy choreographing the perfect picture for social media that we miss being in the actual event. So here are three things I am using to remind myself to be in the moment this year during the Christmas season:
- Start each day with prayer. This season I am using a 31-Day Christmas Prayer Journal, Peace Be Still, by Courtney Joseph, from Women Living Well Ministries to remind myself of the need to begin each day with Jesus at the center of our Christmas season. You don’t need a special guide or devotional, just start each day in the right mindset.
- Limit your schedule. I know, that is funny coming from me. But I am serious. Be intentional about those activities you allow to eat up your time and energy. Allow extra down time this month. Save time to just do nothing but look at the lights on your Christmas tree and enjoy the decorations you spent days spreading around the house.
- Spend time with the people that matter. If you are married, make time with your spouse and intentionally DO NOT talk about Christmas shopping, budgets, or family obligations. Make time to spend one on one time with each of your children, even if it is just a quick trip to the local coffee shop. If you have neglected your circle of friends host a virtual happy hour to reconnect.
In the quiet at the end of the day, take a breath, and listen. As I write this, I can hear my son talking about life with his best friend while they are gaming together. It brings a smile to my face and I want to ponder this moment in my heart. My prayer for all of you, is to open your heart and mind to treasure the moments God gives you this Christmas season.
