The holidays bring huge doses of
depression with them. People with no family, a dysfunctional family, a
long-distance family or a disharmonious family feel the separation more acutely
during these traditional times of family gatherings.
The commercial hype and
unrealistic expectations for our personal Santa to read our mind and to get us
exactly the gift we anticipate puts undue pressure on our significant others to
perform beyond their human capabilities.
God already gave us His antidote
for these poisonous expectations. He provided us with both a nurturing family
and the best gift the world ever received. We are members of His Body, children
of the King and recipients of eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Nothing this world offers can
compare. Moth and rust will destroy any earthly gift. They break down and wear
out and must be replaced. However, Christ's gift of His everlasting peace and
joy are gifts that keep on giving all year long and on into infinity.
We drink of His living water and
never thirst again (John 4:14). We walk in His Spirit and abide in true
happiness which never wanes (Galatians 5:15-25). Our loving heavenly Father
knows best, provides for our needs and never leaves or forsakes us (Hebrews
13:5).
So, when you think of Christmas
shopping this year, make God your priority. Attend a Christmas Eve or Day
service and enjoy your church family. Read God's Word which offers eternal life
as well as wisdom for daily living.
While contemplating your New Year's
resolutions, include church attendance, prayer, Bible study and Christian
service in your list. Put them at the top of the list and make them a priority.
You will find true comfort and joy.
Prayer:
Father God, we humans are so
materialistic. We work so hard to move up the ladder of success, abandoning our
families and making the almighty dollar our idol and priority. We want more
money to buy more things for our children without realizing that we are failing
to give them what they really want and need most - our time and attention.
Help us to make You our priority
in our life and to follow Your wisdom and precepts as our guiding light for
true success on this earth. We not only reap greater rewards now, but we store
up treasure in heaven for eternity (Matthew 6:19-21). Help us to bring as many
people to heaven with us as will humble themselves under Your mighty hand (1
Peter 5:6-9).
Thought for the Day:
The best way to sidestep holiday
depression is to appreciate all that God has given to us and to do random acts
of kindness for those less fortunate than we are.
