Simply Christmas; Part Two: Embracing the Joy
At times, we become so preoccupied with obtaining the ideal presents and decorating our residences that we fail to recognize what really matters. So, this year, let's strip it back to basics and rediscover the joy of a simple Christmas.
The Christmas story begins with an angel bringing "good news of great joy."
"Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord." (Luke 2:10-11)
God's desire is that we would experience the joy, peace, and presence of Christ not just at Christmas, but every day of our lives.
The Biblical Prevalence of Joy
We'll find joy sprinkled all over scripture like twinkling lights on a tree. It pops up more than 330 times. That's no coincidence; it tells us something big about how central joy is to life—and especially at Christmas time. Think about those shepherds in the fields when angels broke into song—pure, sky-splitting joy.
But this isn't just any kind of cheerfulness—it's deep-seated, resilient gladness rooted in faith. And during these festive days, when we celebrate God with us—joy makes even more sense.
Scriptural joy is unchanging within us.
Joy vs. Happiness in Scripture
Happiness comes and goes like holiday guests but scriptural joy? That sticks around through thick and thin because it’s not based on circumstances; rather, it springs from something—or someone—unchanging within us.
Scripture differentiates clearly between fleeting happiness (a mere 26 shoutouts) and enduring joy—a gift that remains steadfast regardless of life’s ups and downs.
The Deep Peace of a Christ-Centered Christmas
There's something about the Christmas season that stirs a longing for peace deep within us. It's like we're all searching for that quiet place where our hearts can sing 'Silent Night' without any irony. The truth is, the peace God offers during this time—and always—doesn't hinge on serene settings or perfect moments.
Experiencing God's Unexplainable Peace
This kind of peace baffles logic. It holds firm even when life feels more like a blizzard than a winter wonderland. We find ourselves steadied by an inner calm that doesn’t make sense given the chaos around us—but then again, since when has true peace ever needed to?
"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:7)
Beyond understanding and circumstances, God’s unshakeable tranquility anchors our souls. This isn't just wishful thinking; it’s an enduring promise found throughout scripture—a promise that shines bright as any Christmas star in dark skies.
Cultivating Patience Through Advent
As the season of Advent unfolds, we're often swept up in a whirlwind of plans and preparations. But let's pause for a moment to reflect on something quite revolutionary patience.
The wisdom from Proverbs 14:29 teaches us that patience is not just about waiting; it’s about understanding deeply. When we slow down, akin to how the Greek term "macrothermos" paints patience as being 'slow to boil over,' we open ourselves up to richer insights and experiences.
Patience as a Reflection of Understanding
Beyond mere endurance, embracing patience during Advent can be transformative. Seeing each day leading up to Christmas not as another tick on the calendar but as an opportunity for growth in wisdom—a chance for our hurried hearts to align with God's unhurried rhythm.
This kind of patient spirit doesn't come easy; it needs tending like embers in a fireplace. So why not use this time before Christmas to cultivate such calm? It could change your interactions more than you might think—and lead you into deeper waters of insight where true understanding dwells.
Encountering God's Presence in Simplicity
Sometimes, the true spirit of Christmas gets lost under a pile of gift wrap and glitter. A holiday season focused not on malls packed with frantic shoppers but on quiet moments that let us really feel God’s presence.
Simplifying for a More Meaningful Celebration
You don't need to look further than Jesus' entry into the world—no grand palace, just a humble manger—to see simplicity at its finest. It wasn’t about worldly riches; it was heaven reaching down to us. That’s why when we simplify our celebrations, cutting back on the flash and dash, we create space for more joy and peace—gifts from Him meant to enrich our lives far beyond December.
This doesn't mean nixing all traditions or decorations. Fewer festive frills amplify our connection with God. It might seem counterintuitive in today's go-big-or-go-home culture, but there's a profound truth here worth embracing as you decorate your heart and home this Christmas.
We must dedicate time with God and His Word.
Transformative Power of Spending Time with God
Our soul is like a garden. Just like any living space, it thrives on tender care and personal touch. Dedicating time to spiritual practices during Christmas isn't just tradition; it's about allowing the divine Gardener to till the soil of our hearts.
Personal Stories of Transformation
The Advent season is a canvas for stories that shape us. Through prayer and reflection, many find their inner landscapes changing in profound ways. It's not simply about counting down days but nurturing growth within ourselves—a patience that doesn't come naturally but supernaturally.
This transformation echoes through lives across the globe, where individuals witness an evolution from impatience to a deep-seated calmness—often described as fruit of the Spirit.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." (Galatians 5:22-23)
Spend some quiet moments with scripture or in prayer this holiday season, and you might just feel yourself slowing down too—becoming slow to boil over amidst December's rush (and let’s be real: those long lines at stores can test even saintly patience). Let these practices guide you toward embracing peace amid chaos and joy beyond measure.
Holding Fast Amidst Holiday Storms
The holiday season often comes with a mix of joy and stress, like a snowstorm swirling with both sparkling flakes and biting winds. Sometimes, life's challenges seem to roar even louder during this time when peace should reign. Yet it's precisely here that we find the steadfast peace of God—unchanging amidst chaos.
God’s peace is known for holding us in place against life’s gales. Think about being anchored deep in the sea; though waves thrash above, there's calm below. This kind of tranquility isn’t just wishful thinking—it's real enough to keep you grounded when everything else feels upended.
This profound serenity goes beyond what makes sense given our circumstances because it springs from something—or Someone—greater than any storm we face. It whispers that no matter how fierce the squall, there is an enduring presence alongside us: unshakable and infinitely calm.
Having More This Christmas Season
So, we've journeyed through the essence of Simply Christmas. It's all about rediscovering joy that doesn't need batteries and peace that stands strong even when life shakes.
We learned joy isn't just a word in a Christmas carol; it's deep-rooted in scripture. This season is your invitation to feel it every day. Happiness may come and go, but true joy lies in finding contentment with the blessings bestowed upon you by God and discovering beauty even amidst life's challenges.
We talked about God’s peace. It’s like an anchor for our soul—not dependent on what happens outside but rather what He provides inside. Patience is like wisdom unfolding slowly under twinkling lights as we wait with purpose during Advent. Embrace simplicity and see how it changes things—you'll find more of Him in less clutter. A time spent with God transforms us from the inside out.
Embrace the simple joys as holiday chaos swirls around you. These precious moments are gentle nudges that companionship and warmth abound during festive times. Let Simply Christmas reignite the awe of togetherness, not through tangible gifts, but through sharing time and cherishing connections—with Him, with loved ones, with yourself.