The Countdown to Christmas

So, as of tomorrow, the 5-day countdown to Christmas begins. I have a small, overwhelming feeling, wondering if I'll get everything done. Will my house be clean enough and welcoming enough for all my guests coming this evening? Will all our presents be wrapped? Will everything on my menu make it to the table and our tummies? Will my packages make it to Texas by Christmas? Will everyone like what they receive? 

And where in all these questions do I find myself wondering if we will take the time to remember why we celebrate Christmas in the first place? 

Oh, don't worry, I have plans for us to read the Christmas story Christmas morning, and I do have the desire for my kids to understand that Christmas is not really about Santa and presents, but about an amazing plan that began with God who loves us, desiring to provide a way for His children to have a relationship with Him. After all, Christmas really is about His love for us and the amazing story of a Baby born to save you and me from our sins.

But, somehow, the "to do" list seems to cast a shadow over the true reason for celebrating Christmas and once those things are done, then I feel I can take the time to make sure we include the Christmas story. However, I'm going to make a concerted effort to make this 5-day countdown include more of Him and less of me. I want to share everything about Him with my kids so they know as they grow how much God loves them and how important it is they cling to that Truth. I want them to know the true miracle of the story of Jesus's birth; full of love, hope and joy - meant for them. 

I bought Rick Warren's The Purpose of Christmas yesterday and I'm looking forward to reading it and being reminded of the joy of Christmas. After all, the words of the song are so true...

Joy to the world, the Lord is come!

(God in the form of a baby to be my Savior!)

Let earth receive her King;

(The Most High King, sent for you and me;)

Let every Heart prepare Him room,

(Oh, that everyone would know the love of Christ,)

And heaven and nature sing.

(And worship His name in every way.)

I encourage you to take the time to read the Christmas story in Luke and make it a part of your Christmas this year!

Merry Christmas!