So, Christmas is approaching very quickly! Why not grab a festive drink (Aaron and I love the Christmas tea blend, and gingerbread lattes!), and enjoy some thoughts on the Christmas season.1. Advent is a very important time for staying focused on Jesus rather than getting sucked in to the frenzy of consumerism. The weeks before Christmas are supposed to be about waiting and expecting the Messiah, so get in to the Old Testament for the prophecies about Jesus. It is very grounding to remember the hundreds of years of waiting before Jesus was born.
2. If you have a poor self-image then you may find it difficult and stressful to choose Christmas presents and to receive presents. Spend time with God, and read the Bible so that you get your image shaped by how God sees you. Ask friends to pray with you. Don't even think about attempting any Christmas shopping without including God in your day, you can even talk to Him as you go round the shops.
3. Keep your mind active when watching Christmas films and advertising. Don't let any messages wash over you otherwise you will find that your Christmas expectations are coming from these sources rather than from the true meaning of Christmas. Don't allow yourself to be pressured or seduced into thinking that certain gifts, food, or relationship/family situations will make Christmas perfect. They won't.
4. Painful memories or situations seem more vivid at Christmas time. You might just be hit with the pain when you least expect it. Be ready to take these things to God and ask for His healing, be ready to forgive again in your heart if you experience resentment or bitterness, and rely on the support of godly friends or family. Don't compare your life to the fake 'perfect family' which is sold to us at Christmas. Jesus didn't come to make fake 'perfect families'. Just be ready to trust Him, knowing that He will comfort you this Christmas.
To be continued in Part 2...x
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