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| 123RF Stock Photo |
It’s that time of year
when expectations run high… but often don’t quite measure-up with reality.
This Christmas has been a
little different than most for our family.
My Dad has been facing a serious health issue since the fall, and that
has put everything in a new perspective.
My Mom and I have spent days in and out of the hospital with him, and it
has taken a toll on her health as well.
Caring for aging parents can be time consuming, emotionally draining,
and physically challenging.
We all have unmet
expectations when it comes to the holidays.
Now might be a good time to reevaluate what is really important this
Christmas. Faith, family and charity are
my favorite things to focus on during this time of year. Here is my take on each one of them:
FAITH - Jesus
is certainly the Reason for the Season. The babe in the manger born in Bethlehem came
into this world to fulfill prophesy foretold long ago of a Savior – Christ the
Lord. He is our Prince of Peace during
times of turmoil and uncertainty. Jesus
is the “indescribable gift” from the Father above.
(II Corinthians
9:15).
FAMILY - Now there is a “loaded” subject. We all have them, but sometimes we don't like them very much. Often during family
gatherings tensions arise between siblings, parents and children, and
spouses. Every family has their danger zone when it comes to
relationship pitfalls. Placing
unrealistic expectations on your family can cause depression, anxiety, and
anger. Be sure bathe your holidays in
prayer. Extend grace where needed and
use self-control liberally.
CHARITY - Nothing makes you feel better than meeting a
need and helping someone less fortunate than yourself. Giving emulates the character of Jesus. This is the season for gift giving and
donating your time, energy and finances to worthy causes. Share with others what the Lord has blessed
you with. Remember, it is not the size
of your gift – but the heart motive that matters.
Oftentimes family
gatherings are a flashpoint for tensions.
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| Norman Rockwell - Google Images |
It might be stressful to deal with an ex-spouse or ex-in-laws. Things don’t always go as planned, so be sure
to stay flexible and non-confrontational if possible. Don’t assume wrong motives. Allow extra time for yourself in order to
avoid a melt-down in the middle of cooking, cleaning and socializing with your
extended family. Ask others to help with
food preparation, gift-wrapping, decorating and cleanup.
Give yourself permission
to “let something go” that was on your to-do list without the guilt. Every year isn’t going to
be a Norman Rockwell Christmas – and that is OKAY.
Recognize that not
everyone is going to want to do what you
want to do at Christmastime. Give
and take is essential with a large family as much as with a small one. Feelings will get hurt and toes will get
stepped on. It’s OKAY. Focus on the major things and don’t fret over
the minor things. Making memories that
will last is honorable – but not at the expense of your sanity or your
relationships.
Remember – JESUS is the
Reason for the Season. Everything else
is filler...
Here are some of my Christmas posts from previous years -
If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to
share it with others.
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