Behold The Savior - Day 17

Day 17 of Advent!

❄️ 🕯️ 🏠 🎁 ☃️ 🔔 🛷 🎶 🧣 🧤 🧦 🍪

It’s only one week until Christmas Eve. It’s a great time to focus on Christ.

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Today’s Devotional: The “Chaos” of Christmas

Wednesday, December 17

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

Some people love to turn the simplicity of Christmas into a headache. They make it all about themselves instead of about the Savior.

“Oh, no. I’ve gotta go to Walmart for the 15th time.”

“I’ve gotta take the kids to another Christmas practice tonight.”

“Ugh. I have to go to the 7th Christmas party this week. Why am I so popular.”

“Looks like I’ll be staying up late wrapping gifts again.”

“I forgot to make cookies for the nursing home! Life is hard!”

Fret. Worry. Stress. Woe is me.

It’s funny because we’ve all been there. Without realizing it, we can turn a beautiful season like Christmas into a burden instead of a blessing. Even more than that, we can be tempted to bring others down with us. Matthew 11:28 is in invitation to “all who labor and are heavy laden.” No matter what we are facing, we can rest in Christ.

Our kids don’t need more hot chocolate parties and Christmas gifts (although that’s great). They need to encounter their Savior. Jesus did not come demanding more from us. He came to give Himself FOR us. Wherever we are at or whatever struggles we face, He is there for us. Christmas is a season for rest, feasting, and worship. So drink egg nog by the fire, gather with family, laugh, sing songs, and celebrate Christ. 🎄

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Reflection:

• In what ways have I allowed busyness or “woe is me” to take over the season?

• What is one practical way I can simplify my schedule to make room for worship?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, forgive me for making this season all about me. Take away all of my stress and worries. Help my home be a place that rests in You. Amen. 🙏