Bringing Focus Back to Christ this Christmas
When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Luke 2:17-19
It’s only a few days left until Christmas Day!
The closer we get, the harder it seems to stay focused on The Reason for the Season.
Last minute Christmas shopping, Christmas parties, cooking, wrapping and the list goes on and on. It seems like my life has been fast forwarded the past few days. As I think about all of these things, I begin to wonder what it was like the very first Christmas. Joseph and Mary searching for a place to deliver the long awaited child.
Shepherds watching.
Angels singing.
People prophesying the Messiah’s birth.
Wise men bringing special gifts.
There was definitely a celebration, full of excitement. Although I’m sure Mary was full of various emotions, she didn’t get caught up in the spectacular.
She took it all in, everything she heard and saw, meditating on them often.
Anytime we have celebrations, it’s easy to get distracted by all the buzz going on, rather than focusing on the one being celebrated.
When Sophia turned 1, we had a huge fall birthday festival for her. There were pony rides, hay barrels with games, bobbing for apples, face painting, pie throwing contests…. you name it, we had it. All the kids had a great time.
But Sophia had no idea what was going on.
I wanted to have a huge birthday bash for her, but in the process I got so wrapped up in making sure everything was set for the party, I’m not sure I even saw her that day. I got lost in all the preparations and forgot about the one I was preparing it all for!
That is exactly how I feel many times around Christmas. I get so caught up in all the festivities and planning for Christmas, that I forget about Who we are really preparing for. I want to enjoy Christmas the next few days, without being caught up in the hustle and bustle.
I want to keep my focus on Christ.
Practical activity for Bringing Focus Back to Christ this Christmas:
Daily Devotion– In addition to daily bible reading, one of the things that we can do to stay focused on Christ is to read daily devotionals. They are daily inspirations that lead you to the Word of God. Here are several devotionals I read throughout the week. When I want solid teaching (the meat and potatoes kind), I listen to Joyce Meyer Ministries. When I need to hear the message of grace, I tune in to Joseph Prince Ministries. If I need some encouragement rooted in the Word, I download one of Steven Furtick’s messages.
Continual Prayer– I’m getting into a habit of seeking God throughout the day. As I do this, I am more peaceful, I respond better to conflict and I stay connected to Him all day instead of just in the morning.
Prayer
Lord, we are so grateful that we have direct access to You. That we can come to you, knowing you hear us and that you have all the answers. Father help us stay focused on you this Christmas. Help us not to get so wrapped up in all the excitement that we forget about why we are celebrating. Lord, we love you! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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