Hey!  Didn’t the song say, “a very, merry Christmas”?

Yep.  But the reality is for many people that it turns into too many commitments, too much money spent, idealistic expectations dashed one more year in a row.

Can I suggest an idea?  Take a few minutes alone or with someone you trust.  Go to a coffee shop or find a quiet time at home.  Talk about what you love AND hate about the holidays–before the pressure swamps you. Have the courage to challenge all the expectations.  What can you live with and stay sane with this year?  Be gentle if kids are involved– explain carefully if something has to change in the yearly tradition.

Here’s the goal:  find your way to a holiday that 1- celebrates Christ’s birth, 2- honors the purpose of his birth by actions of love, kindness, generosity, 3- leaves you and others full of joy, not anger and frustration.

Ask the Lord to help you if you get stuck along the way.  Remember- He cares about the details of your life.  He’ll help you plan “a holiday that’s worth remembering.”  Those word would make a nice holiday tune…

Don Riling (lead pastor @ Mosaic)

(Riling family Christmas 2007- “look- they’re all smiling!”

Comments(0)