Carrying Christmas in My Heart
Living Christmas every day
On new year's day this year, I felt deep inside my heart that the season of Christmas was coming to an end. Through December I had enjoyed singing carols, planning surprises, decorating using simple, everyday items, and holding on to the themes of the season!
But then I thought — it was up to me, I could live Christmas every day!
This is how I am doing that now, and it's beautiful.
Love
I have to abide in God’s love daily — his love is unfailing (Psalm 90:14), healing (Hosea 14:4a), comforting (Isaiah 66:3) and so much more!
I do this by looking for the God moments through my day — as I find a parking spot, as I enjoy the breeze or see a flower bud, when a friend calls to encourage, and when I enjoy a good heart to heart with my son who lives far away. I don’t rush through the day, but instead, I give myself moments to breathe and regroup and connect with and reflect on that perfect, pure love of God.
Joy
Doing for others every day gives me joy and strength. Planning surprises, writing letters, mailing cards, baking, and sharing goodies brought much joy.
Instead of waiting for Christmas to do all these fun things, I can do it through the year. I can be creative and give away a skirt I bought and have never used to a friend who would love it, I can keep a box of handmade cards and stamps to mail encouragement, comfort, and cheer.
Peace
One hour at a time, sweet Jesus- that’s how I live life now. ‘One day at a time’ used to be on my list of favorite songs, but now in my 50s, I realize I need Jesus each hour. This keeps me from worrying and my heart at peace.
When I find myself worrying about my health, my family, my future, I remind myself to focus on CALM as Max Lucado spells out in ‘Be Anxious for Nothing’. I will remember to:
Celebrate life (every day, mundane life)
Ask God (be specific and intentional in praying)
Leave everything with God (focus on the greatness of God)
Meditate on good things (make a poster of ‘ my favorite things’)
Hope
Zechariah 9:12 uses the phrase ‘prisoner of hope’. That is a wonderful way to live-being hopeful no matter what!
The first month of the year is almost done- the rest of the year is for us to embrace, let's face it as prisoners of hope!
