“One of the most glorious messes in the world is the mess created in the living room on Christmas Day. Don’t clean it up too quickly.”

-Andy Rooney

There is this part of me that is always ready to move on to the next thing. At the end of a Christmas party, I am already planning when I am going to wrap those gifts or bake that dish for the next event. I am always planning, always thinking about what is to come. And in many aspects of life, this strategic part of me works on my behalf. But not in those moments that really count.

There are times when the best thing for us to do is to just be present. To pour another cup of coffee. To sit a little longer. To be in the presence of those we love without trying to fix them, and without putting the next meal on too quickly.

Christmas is one of those times.

But because December is so busy, we may feel tempted to rush right through today without even thinking about it. For the past twenty-five days, our minds and bodies have been so focused on getting to the next thing that slowing down may be hard. That is why, I want to invite you to take this moment to

Take a deep breath. 

Then ask, what is most important for you and your loved ones today. Try to put aside any expectations you have of yourself or others. Ask what loving your people well looks like right now. Where do you need to be present? Where do you need to sit a little longer?

This year, I have been reminded in different ways, how fleeting life is. That our time with each other is not to be taken for granted. So this morning, I too am asking myself what is most important, and how I can love my people well. I don’t want to rush through today, and I pray you don’t either. Peace, blessings, and

Merry Christmas!

 

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