The anticipation of Christmas can bring such joy this time of year. That joy is typically being had by my five-year-old. The lights, trees, decorations, hot cocoa and cookies bring a smile to my daughter’s face every day! As an adult, my mind is often occupied by the things that need to get done, the places I need to be or how to avoid the germs that are attacking from all sides. Unfortunately, this joyous season gets hijacked by stress and anxiety.
I will take a deep sigh of relief when I make it through the holiday, but I will also be sad that it was gone so quickly. What was I doing again that entire month (or more) spent preparing for this special day of celebration? Did I not stop to enjoy the miracle of life? Did I not spend time reading the story of Jesus’ birth and singing songs about the greatest gift the world has ever received? What if I became more present in the moments leading up to Christmas and focused on the positive? What if I had more of that childlike faith during the holiday season?
As we approach Christmas, let’s give thanks to God for the small moments, the big moments and all the in-between moments. Don’t expect perfection but praise the one who is perfect!
-Ian