Occupying Christmas
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The Eternity Wreath – LOVE
GOING against the flow…
L
Listening. When I cry out for help, the Lord listens. God is the best listener, and His hearing is perfect. He hears the orphans and widows in their trouble. He hears captives crying out for help. This week, I choose to listen to others rather than speak my mind. I choose to put down my phone and listen with my eyes, too. My listening ear and full attention might change the course of someone’s life who’s in the midst of a hard day.
O
Occupy. This week I’ll occupy my some of my time writing encouraging notes to people who have helped me this year. Or maybe I’ll occupy the neighbor’s kids while their single mother enjoys an evening out. I choose, as the Apostle Paul taught, to occupy my mind with “whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report.” (Philippians 4:8)
V
Value. People are more valuable than “stuff.” We all agree on that. But this season I choose not to hide from the hustle and bustle, staying cozy and warm by my fire with a cup of hot chocolate. I choose to do something tangibly good for someone—a stranger, not family. A new neighbor. Take a homeless person out to lunch. Serve at the soup kitchen. Buy or make small gifts for co-workers.
And tell them, “This is simply to say God thinks you are valuable.”
E
Enjoy. Strive less, enjoy more. Enjoy life; it’s too short. Enjoy nature; it’s beautiful. Enjoy family togetherness; we’re all mortals on a timeline. Enjoy friends; they need you. Enjoy music; it’s magical. Enjoy today, tomorrow might not come.
Enjoy God, because He absolutely enjoys you.
The Love of the Embattled Spirit
A GREAT, SAFE READ by J.A. Marx (This novel released May 2016, but it’s a Christmas story of hope, family, belonging…and suspense!)
“I just really adored this book. So much. Previously, I had a hard time getting into a couple books, but as soon as I started this one, I was so refreshed and so engaged.” -Raechel’s review on Amazon, see more
Purchase on: Barnes and Noble LINK, Amazon LINK or your favored outlet.
