Joy to the World?

Joy to the World?

There are few things in our world today that can simultaneously bring out both the best and the worst in people, the annual excursion through the holiday season is one of those things.  We can witness the madness of “Black Friday” (which pretty much isn’t even on Friday any longer) to communities coming together to provide for those who are less fortunate.  Throughout this period emotions run high and free time seems to evaporate into thin air, leaving us dazed, confused, and exhausted.

If Christmas is supposed to be a Christian holiday (which is debatable), then we should remember that the primary sign of our faith is our love for one another as seen in the following passage:

“A new commandment I give to you,

That you love one another:

Just as I have loved you,

You also are to love one another.

By this all people will know

That you are my disciples,

If you have love for one another.”

John 13:34-35

English Standard Version

It is not then the gifts that we provide that should be a priority but the way we conduct our lives daily.  Yes, enjoy and participate in the madness that is the Christmas season, but no don’t give up your identity in search of the biggest, fastest, newest vegetable slicer that not only slices, dices, or cubes, but also self-seasons at the touch of a finger.  The greatest gift we can provide is respect for those we come into contact with, and a legitimate love and concern for their soul.

Here are a few suggestions for keeping your sanity and your faith through this hectic time of year:

1. Make sure your faith is a priority in your life.  This should always be true, but when we get busy it is easy to get on a bad slide.
2. Prepare ahead of time.  At this point that may just mean keeping a list of items yet to be done/purchased and a timeline of when things need to be complete.  On a grander scale as this season ends start thinking about next year.  After Christmas sales are a great way to get the ball rolling, if you can store items without forgetting about them.
3. Plan times of rest and relaxation.  For some it may be a block of time to take a long, hot bath while for others it could be settling in to watch one of the many excellent Christmas movies, or a quiet time to read.  
4. Don’t get over-scheduled.  There is tremendous power in being able to say no, and it will help lower your anxiety as your calendar begins to clear and conform to your priorities.

I am certain there are other positive strategies available to us, but the key is to find what works for you, and remember that the other people you encounter on the roads, in the stores, or at work/school are probably just as stressed as you are.  If we will each show a bit of courtesy and respect then the holidays will flow so much better and truly be a season of Joy to the World.  It is my hope that this writing will stimulate you to think of how you can lower your own stress and contribute to lowering someone else’s along the way.  If you do, then you will Do Well!