Wednesday, December 20, 2023
The other day, I caught myself talking about what I don’t like about Christmas, but then I turned around and mentioned the seasonal things that delight me. I’m not easy to shop for, but I enjoy giving gifts to others. Caroling? I can do without that, but my Christmas playlist is ready to go after Thanksgiving … as long as I hear “In My Mind” first. Our youngest daughter, Joss, pleaded with me for a Christmas tree last year, so I put away our Christmas ladder and got a tree instead. See, I’m not a complete Scrooge.
Many experience dismay, disgust, and discouragement throughout much of the year, but December is when even the most “Eeyore” among us can find our inner “Pooh.” What is it about Christmas that moves us to (at least attempt to) be better, make others happy, and bring joy? Because it’s also the time of year when being alone is more draining than ever. Perhaps the true meaning of Christmas is built into each of us without us realizing it, so the highs and lows are amplified.
Psalm 18:19
He led me to a place of safety; he rescued me because he delights in me.
The above verse is about God rescuing David and bringing him to safety. God purposely chose David and was delighted that he lived righteously, even after his failures.
It’s a blessing that we all have an opportunity to live out Psalm 18:19. Celebrating Christmas reminds us that God gave us Jesus to bring us to safety, despite our attempts to ignore and even openly reject his gift. God did this because he delights in all of his children, and like David, that alone should give us the strength to live life as God intended. Christmas is that end-of-the-year reminder.
Questions:
What brings you delight? Is it a lasting feeling, or do you crave something more?
Next Steps:
Think about someone who tends to spend Christmas alone, and invite them to one of the Christmas services or to Christmas dinner.
Prayer:
Dear God, this is the time of year when, so long ago, your love for us delivered a new beginning. I am loved because you chose to love me. I cannot comprehend how much delight you have for me, your child. Help me to regularly and lovingly pay it forward without expecting anything in return from others. Amen.
Parent resource:
Read Luke 2:17-19 together as a family. We can all share the Good News about Jesus’ birth! Talk about who you can invite to join your family for a Christmas service.
This post was written by Jaron Camp, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut.