“Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.” Romans 15:13
What do you think of when you hear the word Christmas? Do cozy fires, Christmas carols, delicious food, Jesus’ birth, and jolly times with family come to mind? Or is it days crammed full, last-minute Christmas shopping, long overdue cleaning, and a to-do list that is miles long?
Maybe you’re like me, and the first, ideal list that I mentioned comes to your mind, yet in daily life, you find that difficult to actually live out! And let’s face it, there is work that needs to be done, and that is important as well, but sometimes it isn’t the most predominant thing.
Christmas can be so hectic, but Jesus is the Prince of Peace, so why is it that most of us find it so hard to stop, and take the time to enjoy a little bit of peace?
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14
Let’s go to Luke 2:14 and take some advice from Mary; “But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.” From this verse, I do not get a picture of Mary stressing out or worrying. Sure, I agree that Mary probably had questions and things to work through. But I have decided that Mary rested, and that she had peace in God.
“38Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. 39And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word. 40But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, LORD, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. 41And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: 42But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:38-42
These verses talk about another Mary who rested. It seems like resting is a common theme with Jesus!
So, how can we put this into practice during the holidays? Comment on what you do to relieve the busyness and stress the holidays can bring.
One way of making a peaceful Christmas is to plan ahead and buy Christmas gifts all throughout the year.
Another is to learn when to say “no”. Sometimes you just cannot do everything and go everywhere, and that is ok.
Most importantly, even during the busy Holiday season, makes sure you prioritize your time with God!
May God bless you, and I pray that each one of you can rest in Jesus and have a very special Christmas this year. -Kinza
pursuingourpurpose.com 
One thing I’ve used the last 3 years is an Advent devotional in the month of December. While it doesn’t necessarily guarantee less stress in my days, it does help me focus every day on what Christmas is really all about! I really like your point of saying no to some things too. It can be so easy to feel pressure to do everything or to chase all the “experiences” in order to “be in the Christmas spirit”. 😊
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