December has arrived, and with it the time of Advent, and countdown to Christmas and the New Year. While December is a month packed full with holiday preparations, festivities, and fellowship with family and friends, it also serves as a time to look back and reflect on the previous months, and to think about what the new year may bring. In the quietness of the early morning and evening hours, by the light of the Christmas tree and with the tune of carols in the background, many of us will find ourselves meditating on our blessings, thinking of our loved ones, and offering prayers for more of God’s fullness and goodness to grace our lives. In these moments of solitude, may we find room to breath and just “be” for a while, and leave refreshed and able to give more of ourselves to what matters most.
Personally, I want this season to be a time to slow down in the midst of all that clamors for my attention, and really focus. Focus on God and the true meaning of Christmas. Focus on my marriage. Focus on my family. Focus on my friendships. Focus on my blessings. Focus on my goals and dreams and future. This is what my soul is craving: being intentional in focusing my efforts, my hopes, and my love on living the “good life” – a life defined and lived in the abundance of God.
There is so much that comes at us in the days and weeks of our lives. It’s easy to get wrapped up and consumed in those things that overwhelm and exhaust. But focusing, really focusing, can take much of that stress and anxiety away and renew us to place of peace and joy. Isn’t that what Christmas (“God with us”) is meant to be? I think so!
So, with that, I wish for each one of us moments of stillness and quietness, as well as fun and happiness, in the midst of this blessed busy season.
Happy December!