Keep it Simple…
Photo by freestocks on Unsplash
Good morning! Good morning! Good morning!
Can you even believe it is almost Thanksgiving?
It seems like we were just ringing in the New Year, doesn’t it?!
My Mom and Dad always used to say how fast time goes…I am thinking they were right!
As Thanksgiving and Christmas approach, I want us to do something different this year.
This idea came to me as I was in HomeGoods yesterday. I had a short list of the “things” I “needed”.
However, when I walked through the door, I felt a rush, a huge rush of OVERWHELM.
Christmas stuff everywhere!
My mind was spinning and my heart started racing a bit.
It was just….So. Much. Stuff.
I went from aisle to aisle, seeing things that were just desperately adorable that I “needed”.
A few aisles in, I stopped and took a deep breath.
What am I doing?
I do not need this stuff. Yes, it is so cute, but I already have too much stuff as it is!
As I was taking that deep breath, I looked over and saw my sweet friend, Debbie.
She also had that same look of overwhelm on her face. We started laughing because we both knew we had been sucked in!
I had come into the store looking for lamps, and thirty minutes in had not even come close to reaching the lamps aisle.
Slowly, I began to put things back that I had picked up.
It felt good to let it go. I felt so…..disciplined! :)
As I looked around me, I began to realize that Christmas has become so stressful through the years.
It is the exact opposite of Jesus—the entire reason we celebrate!
Jesus is Peace. (John 14:27)
Jesus is Calm. (Mark 4:39)
Jesus is Joy. (John 15:11)
Somewhere along the way, we have believed the lie of the world that Christmas has to be “magical” and “perfect”.
Yet, the sweetest memories I have are of just being with my family. Laughing, playing, sharing meals…
The gifts are not even in the forefront of my mind when I think of why I love celebrating Christmas.
How about we keep keep it a little more simple this year.
How about we focus more on the people than the presents and presentations.
Isn’t it funny how the world turns everything upside down?
The whole meaning of Christmas has become skewed and manipulated.
Let’s bring back the sweetness and the true MIRACLE of Christmas.
There is no greater gift than showing our families Christ-like Love.
It is what we all really need the MOST.
I have found that peace is tangible. Others can feel it when they are around us.
However, it is also true of chaos. Chaos can be felt just as easily by those around us.
This year, before you go shopping, or online shop….
Pause.
Pray.
Take a deep breath.
Smile.
Picture your loved ones.
Now, go enjoy this most MIRACULOUS season!
Ask God to continually fill you with JOY as you make all the lists and check them twice.
He is our Helper!
Let Him lead you, guide you, and show you His way.
If you need some accountability, call me. I will need it too!
**Also, if you need a couple of stocking stuffer ideas…
This Bible is my absolute favorite! I have done this reading plan countless times.
Also, my new devotional, Rise and Shine! A great accompaniment for your Bible reading. :)
simplifying,
jill
