Every year, it feels like Christmas (and the rest of the year) goes by too fast. There's so much anticipation, planning and preparation and then it’s over!

It can be hard to find space to really slow down and enjoy all that we celebrate in the Christmas season. It’s really important to make space to remember how God has shown up in the previous year, to practice gratitude for where you are and to name what you’re hoping for in the coming year.

Several years ago, my wife began writing a note to herself when we put away the Christmas decorations. She always stashes it on top of the ornaments so she sees it when we open the decorations the following year.

In these notes, she reflects on and remembers where God has shown up in the previous year, she practices gratitude for the current moment and she names what she’s hoping and praying for in the coming year. She also throws a funny memory from the previous year in the note that always makes us laugh when we open it the next year.

After she did this a couple years in a row, it became something we started doing as a family, and it has become really meaningful after we’ve packed away all the Christmas swag to take a few minutes as a family to remember, be grateful and hope together. Really, I could stand to do this practice daily! How about you?

As followers of Jesus and ministry leaders, it’s so important that we pursue joy, peace and hope, and as we do, it makes us distinct and the world will take notice!

Scripture

Psalm 77:11-14

I will remember the deeds of the Lord;

    yes, I will remember your wonders of old.

I will ponder all your work,

    and meditate on your mighty deeds.

Your way, O God, is holy.

    What god is great like our God?

You are the God who works wonders;

    you have made known your might among the peoples.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, show me how you have been working in my life, and give me faith to trust that you will continue to show up. Fill me with gratitude and hope as I trust in You no matter what the circumstances of life might bring. 

 

You can read the rest of our team's Christmas traditions on the blog.