Ernie Haase & Signature Sound - 11 Days & Ways To Have A Merry ChristmasSample

Finding the Comforter Outside of Your Comfort Zone

Hebrews 12:2-3 - Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

I love how we use words to convey moments and memories. 

We travel to the United Kingdom and I love talking with our friends there. I’m fascinated by the fact that they don’t call their time away from work a vacation. They call it a holiday. And I like that much better. It conveys happiness. 

That’s why it’s never bothered me to hear someone wish another person, “Happy Holidays.” Personally, my favorite way of saying it is, “Hey! This Christmas make sure you make it a Happy Holiday!”

I know, that’s a lot of words, but the thing about the words are that they convey what I wish for them, and it only takes a few seconds to say. 

In the hustle and bustle of this holiday, don’t be surprised if you are completely worn out. Anything out of your routine has the potential to exhaust you because you are not conditioned to be in that space for long periods of time. 

When the great light shined on the shepherds that first Christmas night, they left their comfort zone. 

When the wise men saw a great star, they journeyed a great distance. Time, routine, and comfort were put on hold because they knew this was a BIG DEAL! They had to get to Bethlehem. I’m sure they were exhausted! But, oh, the joy that was waiting for them on this holiday trip!

And don’t forget: it was pretty smelly in that cave where the manger lay. 

Your holidays may not be filled with loving people, well-cleaned rooms, love, and encouragement. As a matter of fact, your holiday may be causing you stress just thinking about it. If you and I can start right now to change our expectations of people and situations, we will lay the foundation for a happier holiday this Christmas. 

Our Savior came, not as a king to be served, but as the lowly son of a carpenter who came to serve others. If we can turn our minds and hearts in His direction, then we can start to embrace what all this holiday should be about. 

If our gifts would stop being a show of our means and become something that reflects a service or meeting of needs, then we can make it a happy holiday. 

Make it special. Don’t stress; don’t over-expect; and by all means, don’t make it about you! 

God gave us His best! Let’s agree to start right now to give ourselves away, not only to the ones who are easiest to love but to those who are difficult. Let’s reflect the light of the world that is indeed Jesus the Christ, the hope for all ages.