What is Christmas to you?

We often get caught up in this fast paced world and find it hard to slow down. We also get caught up in it's everyday expectations.  That includes Christmas.  

I encourage you to not get caught up in the commercialism of the season.  Instead, focus on what's important this time of year.. Which brings me to my post question, What is Christmas to you?

I stole this from one of our pastors who talked a little about it this past Sunday.  Have you ever asked yourself what this holiday means to you?  Is it only about Friends, Family, Parties, Food, Gifts?  Or is it something more to you?

I have an issue with this, we are surrounded by so much commercialism and expectation of the season. It really brings me down. Which is why every day during this season I have to re-focus on what is really important to me this time of year, and that is Jesus.

Now, don't get me wrong.  There is absolutely nothing wrong with gifts during this season. But, I think we need to ask ourselves why we give gifts?  Are we doing it out of obligation?  Are we doing it with a giving spirit and heart?  Are we doing it because Jesus is our ultimate gift and we want to show that to others?

I encourage you this season to slow down, re-focus and ask yourself : What does Christmas truly mean to me?  Then ask yourself, what does is mean to those around me? Will this spur a discussion this Christmas for you and yours?

I encourage you to read through the Christmas story again.  Put yourself in each of the peoples shoes(or sandals in this case). 

I pray that this season would bring you peace knowing that the Prince of Heaven came down to be with us. To show us the way and to ultimately show the greatest sacrifice so that we may live forever.

Luke 2:6-7
While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.