Long ago, on a silent night in Bethlehem, a child came into the world who would change it forever—a Savior for us all. But let’s face it, in the hustle and bustle of today’s world and the Christmas season, there aren’t many silent nights, are there?
We race from one thing to the next, and when we aren’t in perpetual movement, our minds are racing. We can be so busy celebrating that we neglect the One who inspires it all.
Or perhaps in this time when everyone else seems to be extra happy, we are sidelined by loneliness or grief and the pain of that is all we can see.
When I was young, Christmas was all anticipation and excitement. It was family—parents, grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles. A big crowd, food, and presents. And each week we lit an Advent candle in expectation.
When I married and my husband and I had our own children, responsibilities increased. The season became about creating new memories, travel to see extended family, and striving to remind our kids and ourselves of the true meaning in the midst of the hoopla. There was much on the to-do list for school, church, and work. The word “busy” was in the air everywhere.
Now our children are grown, and yet again our Christmases look different. Some are full of the people we love, and we delight in the critical role of spoiling grandchildren. Others are quiet, perhaps even lonely—Christmas dinner for two. In this season of life, I have learned to appreciate the time I have to breathe Him in deeply and relish the overwhelming love God lavishes on us.
I began to consider how to take the best of all those Christmases and with intentionality find even deeper meaning and joy, regardless of the circumstances or season of life. Could I rekindle that childlike excitement and anticipation, then merge it with the purpose and fulfillment of busier days, along with the intimate awareness and space to soak in God’s goodness I have come to know? If I could do that, would Christmas perhaps become something richer?
Then Joyce invited me to write a Christmas devotional with her, and I was thrilled and energized. We spent time together talking about more than just “surviving” the season but awakening the Spirit behind it and delighting in God’s incredible plan. We discussed how the Word opens our eyes to who Jesus is and all He came to give us.
Verses like Isaiah 9:6 (ESV) inspired us: For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
What a vivid description! We explored how to draw near to this amazing Savior and honor Him with our Christmas and our lives beyond the holidays. I loved how even after years of walking with Jesus, throughout this process I saw many new and beautiful things. There is always so much more for us in Him!
Could you be missing some of what He sacrificed everything to give you?
Joyce and I invite you to join us for 25 days of drawing near to Jesus this Christmas. Not to glance when we have a free moment but to gaze upon our Savior with focused adoration and awe. I know you would love to hang out with Mama Joyce, so let us encourage you as we spend just a little time together each day. These daily devotions will open your eyes, heal your aching heart, and remind us all not to lose sight of God in the holiday glitter.
Let’s prime the pump for a Christmas perhaps unlike you’ve experienced before. We’ll shine a bright light on all God is giving us and all we have to give Him. When we awaken that, transformation happens. The more we know Him, the more we love Him. The more we love Him, the more we love others. As we do, Christmas becomes what it is meant to be, and hope and joy follow.
Also, this book is simply lovely! Each entry is a beautifully illustrated piece of art. It’s something you will want to keep for years to come and give as gifts to people you love.
If you want more, let’s go deeper together. Instead of feeling a little empty when the holidays are over, even after you worked to make it perfect for everyone, let’s make this Christmas one that will transform your life. Come and behold Him!
