Just for today, let’s savor the season by taking a pause from the hustle and bustle and soaking in the beauty of Christmas. Let the glowing lights of the season remind you of the One whose light shines bright in your heart and whose love keeps your heart dancing. Because of Him, we always have hope. We always have a way out of worry and stress. We always have a Helper. No matter what the situation, we have His light in every situation.
One morning recently before the sun came up, I found my way to the family room to let out our very loved pup, Shaka. I opened the crate, and he immediately curled up on the couch right there in the middle of all the Christmas pillows. I grabbed a blanket and curled up next to him, hoping to catch a few more minutes of sleep before the day began. A few minutes later, I heard little footsteps coming down the stairs. I watched with one eye open as my little seven-year old snuck in right next to Shaka. Colt has always been my early bird. I must have fallen asleep for a few more minutes, then I woke up to a shuffling sound around the Christmas tree. Like a little secret Christmas ninja, Colt found his way to the Christmas light switch, and with delight, turned on the lights of the tree and the mantle. And in one quick ninja move, he darted back to the couch and snuggled in close to Shaka again.
It made me smile to see his absolute delight in turning the lights of the Christmas tree and mantle on. He was so excited to see the glow and magic of the colored lights. This morning, it gets me thinking…I want to see Christmas with child-like eyes. And I want to be that excited every day about the light of Jesus that I get to have in my heart every day and that I get to hold out to the world around me. (with much grace and help from Him.)
Christ’s light in us never extinguishes. It never goes out. Sometimes it can feel like it’s a bit dim or like it’s fading even, but sweet ones, Christ’s light in you will never leave you. Sometimes it just needs some fuel to keep it shining. And as we slow down, savor, ponder, and soak in the reality of this God-light we hold in our hearts, we begin to feel the warmth of His light in a new way. And His light in us shines brighter to those around us as we reflect on the beauty and gift of God in us and with us.
Today, I’m going to borrow some beautiful phrases from Mary, Jesus’ mother, from Luke 1. In these verses, Mary is expressing the joy of the gift of her Savior, our Savior, YOUR Savior. I think her words are a perfect place to help us savor the gift of our Savior this Christmas:
Know today, that just like Mary, God is mindful of you. He has done great things for you and continues to do so every day. He lifts you up and fills your soul. He brought you salvation through His precious Son and loves to be your Helper through all of life. Unwrap the gift of Christmas this season. Savor the beauty of being a daughter of God through Jesus. His light shines bright over your life and in your heart. Ponder the wonder of it all today as you soak in the beauty of your own dance with the Lord.
- Reflect on the ways God has been mindful of you over this past year.
- What are some great things He has done for you?
- How has He filled your hungry heart?
I love this, Sarah! Especially love the little story of Colt and the Christmas lights! We all need to snuggle in with our Savior and relish this moments… so we can “shine” from within …. and others might know Him too!
PS — I love the lights, too, Colt! Morning and evening with the just the Christmas tree on…. my favorite!
Hugs! Thanks for sharing this, Sarah!