Stress-free holidays

The holidays can be a busy time. On top of work, there are travel plans and gift giving. It can seem like the focus is on the to-do list and not on the message of the Christ — God’s unconditional love for all mankind.

So how do we put the spirit of the Christ back in Christmas with all the things that need to get done?

In a recent article I wrote published in The Monitor, I tell about a time when our family moved across country and had a lot to do upon arrival. I share how seeking “the kingdom of God first, and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33) became a helpful focus, giving me a greater sense of peace, and allowing things to fall into place naturally and harmoniously.

In another article that I appreciate on this topic, “Unselfishness: a recipe for time managment“, the author writes of his spiritual wake up call from feeling self-centered pride about finishing his to-do list to a greater desire to live spiritually: “Like a bolt of lightning, it became clear to me that I had just one task: to express unselfishness, to dedicate my entire day to blessing and serving others…”

I hope these ideas will help you and yours to express more of the Christ-spirit this holiday season. Wishing you a Christmas season filled with grace, poise, patience, gratitude, Christly-love and affection.

Photo by pixabay.com

Stressful relationships?

 

Sometimes the holidays add stress to relationships.  I made a diagram or metaphor for some ideas that help me think about my relationships (and what holds them together) in a new way.

 

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