Zechariah 4:1-14
Psalms 50, 59, 60, 33
Revelations 4:9-5:5
Matthew 25:1-13
Psalm 33
December 25th is quickly approaching and as I sit in the family room of our home with a few quiet moments to myself, I’m tempted to grab a pen and paper and begin madly writing a long list of “to-dos” that I’ve decided must be completed before Christmas morning arrives. After all, there are still a few gifts to buy and wrap, meals to plan and prepare, and sheets to wash in preparation for holiday company. I push aside the temptation to satisfy my on-going need to stay organized and instead light a candle and pick up my bible from its home in a basket at couch-side. The basket holds those things that are guaranteed to bring me a much needed break from the busyness of daily life. Along with my bible, there is a book on gardening, another on hiking trails that are recommended in Texas, a collection of photographs from Rocky Mountain National Park, and some yarn and needles, my sad attempt at knitting, which has yet to yield even one finished garment, but on occasion brings me joy nonetheless. I open my bible to Psalm 33 and begin slowly pouring over the verses. The psalm begins with some wonderful reminders of God’s goodness. As I read further, I’m consumed by what I’m reading and slowly my need to make lists and cross items off lists begins to dissolve. The candle next to me flickers as I read on, contemplating verses that encourage us to consider the awesomeness of our God, verses like…
“All of the stars were created by the breath of his mouth. He gathers the waters of the sea together. He puts the oceans in their places.”
I read on, and eventually come to verses that describe God’s fascination with and love for us…
“From heaven the Lord looks down and sees everyone. From his throne he watches all those who live on Earth. He creates the hearts of all people.”
Such beautiful words that in short remind us of how very much each and every one of us means to God.
This holiday season, be good to yourself and insist on spending time in God’s word when the temptation to shift into high gear and become a task master takes hold. There is a peace that comes from time spent with Him, a peace that can prepare you for the beauty of Christmas morning better than any completed to-do list can.
Beth McGee