There’s an icon on Google Maps I appreciate: ‘re-center’. It helps me when I get a bit off-course; it takes me back to the place I should be. I need that button even when I’m not in my car! This is the time of year where things get a bit crazy. I feel like my mind is going in a million directions at once. Here’s an example: Last weekend I transported decorative vases filled with glittery stems to the church. Afterwards, my seats looked like a glitter blizzard had overtaken my car. Throughout the week I couldn’t stop thinking that my next passenger would have an um….er… decorative bottom. I’ve also been thinking about the birthday parties my family celebrates this month, the upcoming shopping trips, and the packages that need to be wrapped. It’s clearly time for me to hit the re-center button.
We all need that button. Our thoughts, responsibilities, and constant busyness can shift our focus from the real reason we celebrate Christmas. And when that happens, we need to hit the re-center button. It takes us back to the place we should be: a place called peace. “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10, NLT) In quietness we remember Jesus is the reason for the season. The baby born in Bethlehem so long ago brought everything we need: salvation, love, hope, and peace. “For to us a child is born…and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6-7, NIV) Christmas is the perfect season to celebrate with family and friends. But it’s also a perfect time for reflection. “For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” (Psalm 100:5, NIV) Stopping to re-center this busy season will remind us: Love came down at Christmas… and stayed.
Things to do today:
- Take time for reflection.
- Click on the blue words above for another blog: ‘Love Came Down at Christmas’ and two Christmas songs: ‘Heart of Christmas’ and ‘When Love was Born.’