What a week! (again)

The past eight days have been pretty nice.  No, really nice. For the past 10 years or so, I have tried to make sure and gear down during Thanksgiving week.  I've tried to make sure and focus on my family and make them feel as special as possible.  The reason is that for the next 4 weeks, my attention and time and energy will be focused on getting things ready for the Christmas holiday season.  In the past there has been the tree lighting event (which I withdrew from this year), and then there are all of the year end programs and choir musical and all of the pomp and circumstance that comes with this time of year.

And as much as I have tried to simplify my life a bit, there are some really amazing things that are running pretty quick.  Quicker than I ever thought possible.

But I have really stopped down this past week to be with my family.  And for the first time in many years, Jess and I have been able to say this has been a REALLY GREAT WEEK. There hasn't been the pressures that we have faced in past years.  We've been able to share meals together.  We went to the movies as a family - something that we just haven't been able to do.  We actually got the Christmas lights up on the OUTSIDE of the house! That doesn't always get accomplished. But its VERY important, so our neighbors know we celebrate!  We got most of the shopping done for Christmas and can just (hopefully) focus on the things that are really important for the next 4 weeks.  Because its gonna fly by.

There is such a difference in my heart this year.  I have always acknowledged that there is a "tempo" to this time of year.  Its allegro - for my musically challenged friends, that's quick and lively. And although I will miss some of the things that have been tradition in the past, I look forward to beginning some new ones this year.

So the reminder for myself and you guys, my family, is to make sure and remind you of the things that so easily get lost this time of year.  KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTMAS. In a world that is steadily pushing Him aside, make sure and say it over and over - as graciously and lovingly as you can...Merry Christmas.

It's His time of year.

So as we officially kick off the Christmas season, make sure to set aside some time to do nothing.  Snuggle up with the family, a blanket and a good Christmas special. Maybe a parade.  But whatever you do, don't let the world swallow you up. Remember that it was a CHILD that set this whole thing in motion.

See you Sunday.