JOY JOY JOY AND MORE JOY

It's Christmas time! Joy to the world! Many around you, or perhaps you
yourself, do not feel joyful due to circumstances in your life. You
just wish Christmas would hurry and go away as it makes things way too
painful. Why is it some people love Christmas and others dread to see
it come?

Maybe if we would not forget what this day is about then we could just
enjoy it in a simple way. When you have expectations that are not met
or feel let down then it is hard to get into the spirit of this
wonderful day celebrating the birth of the baby Jesus. Perhaps you
feel obligated to do certain things that end up causing you stress.
Why not sit back, go somewhere alone where it is quiet, and just pray
and be still? No cell phones. No music in your ear. Nothing. Just you
and God. It may be a challenge if you are a young parent with children
or work full time. Try to find time to schedule a "peace break" alone
somewhere. It could be at a park just sitting in your car. Or go for a
walk. Take time to decompress.

No one said you have to bake twelve dozen cookies. No one said you
need a tree. No one said you have to send Christmas cards.(I for one
send New Years photo cards instead around the 3rd week of January when
people are back in a calmer routine). No one said you have to have an
open house. No one said you have to go to parties. Try to sit and talk
to God and decide what this day is all about and go from there. How
can you have peace on earth when you are in inner turmoil?

John 14:27(NIV) says 'Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I
do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be
troubled and do not be afraid.' Remember the scripture in Romans
12:2(NIV) that reminds us 'Do not conform to the pattern of this
world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, Then you will
be able to test and approve what God's will is. His good, perfect, and
pleasing will.' Part of this Christmas stress might be caused by
trying to fit into the mold of someone else. Relax and enjoy Jesus'
birthday. That is what this day is really about.

PRAYER: Father thank you for your peace. I want to enjoy Christmas for
what it is and not get caught up in the man made things that can tend
to cause stress. Help. Me Lord learn when to say no to things just
because "the world" thinks it is the thing to do. I want to enjoy your
birthday. In Jesus' name. Amen.