12 Days of Christmas 2017 - Day 11: The Christmas Lights
Last night my family visited a
neighborhood that decks out their houses with Christmas lights, inflatables and
painted wooden decor. From afar, the house just look luminous and pretty, the
bulbs or signs just floating here and there. But when you look closer up,
you start to notice all the wires and poles that hold them up. It got me
thinking, People are just like Christmas lights. From afar, they can
look all put together and perfect, but when you take a look closer, you can see
how much they rely on other people to help hold them up. This Christmas, even
though everyone looks happy with their smiles at each register, we should see
if they're really okay or if they need a comforting shoulder. I
literally thought that, and I was, like, "Ooh, that'll be my next
post." But seriously, this is so true. Employees are saying, "Merry
Christmas!" and people smile back and echo the greeting, but deep down,
their facial expressions are plastered on rather than natural reactions. Maybe
it's because they lost a loved one and it's just another reminder that they're
spending it without him or her. Maybe it's because they're depressed. Maybe
they're worried about money. Whatever it is, I want to give you a challenge.
When you're extra cheerful this season, remember why, and be sincere about it!
Don't just think, "Oh, it's Christmas; I'll pretend I'm joyful." Think
to yourself, "Jesus came to earth to renew brokenness, so we should follow
His example and show love to the broken around us!" Yes, it's usually easy
during this time of the year to be happy, but I want you to be intentional
about it. No matter whether or not you feel like it, try really hard to
remember why you're doing this. Is it to impress others or to give glory to
God?
Unlike these Christmas lights,
which are seasonal, I want you to be unconditional about this attitude. No
matter what day it is, or how you're feeling, try to remember that you don't
always know someone's story. Be kind and flexible. Remember that some people
are really good at hiding their feelings and that some people aren't as perfect as they might seem. Let's choose joy over judgment this season and ultimately, every season. Remember the Christmas lights!
Can you believe tomorrow brings
Christmas Eve? I hope you've enjoyed the 12 Days of Christmas 2017 series so
far and our five guest writers! There's one last post tomorrow...be sure to read it. :) God bless you, and may the Holy Spirit's wisdom and discernment guide you on how to best care for others around you and spread infectious joy to all.
