Christmas Lists

Anyone else out there a list-maker? Santa may make a list and check it twice, but I am somewhat obsessed with making lists and checking them much more often than twice!

Right after Thanksgiving, my Christmas season lists are many – Christmas gift lists, food lists, baking lists, card lists, family gathering lists, and on and on. Sometimes, I get so caught up in the details, I miss the big picture! I have to intentionally stop myself and remind myself that “Jesus is the reason for the season.”

Matthew 6:33 KJV says, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” This is how I need to apply “Jesus is the reason for the season.” If I can focus on that statement, everything else falls into place. I’m able to step back and take a deep breath and just enjoy being with family and friends because my motive and attitude are transformed when I remember it’s all about Jesus (not me and my to-do lists).

As I have gotten older, with more years behind me than in front of me, it has changed my perspective. It’s not about how much money I spend on each person on my Christmas list or how fancy my gatherings are with friends and family, but it’s all about sharing precious time together and making wonderful memories. Each Christmas, I realize, I’m one Christmas closer to heaven!

The best gift we can give anybody is the gift of Jesus – telling others about Him and His saving grace. It doesn’t cost us a thing because He’s already paid the price. For those who accept this gift, it won’t ever break or wear out – it’s eternal.+

I pray for all of us that we can slow down this Christmas season and truly savor our time with family and friends and remember: “Jesus is the reason for the season!”



Merry Christmas!