There is lots of frenzy going on right now. People shopping for Christmas presents, parties, parades, preparation. Yes, it’s that time of the year again. And time, well that seems to just disappear as we fill our days and evenings with various family commitments, work obligations and even social events.
In my Blackaby devotional reading today, “Time pressures will attack the good in your life. Your time to pray, study Scripture, be with your family, and serve in your church will all be pressured by the many other time demands you face. You may give generously to your church and other Christian causes, but you will be tempted to spend your money selfishly and minimize the good you are going with your finances.”
GUILTY! That’s me. I met a few girlfriends at the mall last week for a ‘special event’ at Bloomingdales. It was one of those private-invitation only, where they serve you champagne and martini’s and butler’s walk around with food to munch, all the while you are supposed to be shopping for their ‘great deals’ (which is kind of a oxymoron considering it’s Bloomingdale’s!) It was seriously a challenge for me not to get caught up in the moment, and spend money that I really don’t have, to just treat myself. Because, after all, I really do deserve it, right?
Satan has a very unique way of infiltrating our Christmas celebrations. We kind of put Jesus and God in the back seat while we prepare for Christmas. It’s the Black Friday, Cyber-Monday, and well, I’m too tired . . . so instead of going to church, I sleep in on Sunday. The Devil is very cunning that way. We become so busy that we seriously forget what we are supposed to be celebrating.
Years ago when I was a student at Palm Beach Atlantic University, one of the highlights of December for me was their Advent Guide. I was joyfully delighted this year when I found the Advent Guide on the PBAU website available to download. It’s been my morning reminder to focus on God’s word. It helps me prepare and focus on the most important relationship needing attention this time of the year. My relationship with My Savior.
So today, if you are getting caught up in the countdown to Christmas and also need a reminder, I share with you from Luke, Chapter 2 . . .
“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you; You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” AMEN.
Lisa Sorenson
Lisa Sorenson
