There's never a time like Christmas to Show our Joy. The word is literally plastered everywhere this time of year. As I sit in my kitchen, I can see it displayed on four different decorations. The word is on our front doormat, the wreaths on our porch, and two huge signs in the entryway. Let's just say we enjoy the word JOY.
From the time my kids were tiny, I have used JOY as an acronym...
JOY = Jesus, Others, You
This should be our focus all year through. Show it and live it. When you put Jesus first and think of others before Yourself, then everything else in life can fall into place.
As Christians we are to have JOY in our hearts and lives. Regardless of the stresses of the season, the difficult family drama, the frustrating present buying, overloaded calendars, and all the hustle that comes along with December; we must allow JOY to shine through.
We tend to lose Jesus in the holiday season. Yes, we display our nativities and we sing of His birth, but even as a Bible believing mom, I can still focus too much on the presents, food, and festivities. I long to think of Jesus first and foremost. It's just so hard to not get lost in the lights and sounds and chaos.
So how can we show JOY today and everyday, not just when it's plastered all over the December décor.
- Smile as you shop. (Yes I know you just got bumped by a shopping cart, and someone just picked up the last ham, and there are 3 kids screaming right now, but kindness and smiling goes such a long way.)
- Be pleasant with the cashier. (Yes the checkout line was incredibly long and maybe he or she is not the most cheerful either, but nine times out of ten when I try to chat I'll finally get a smile back at some point. It seriously can make their day and your day better.)
- Exhibit patience. (Yes in the bad traffic, in the oh so long Christmas play, in the long grocery store line, and at the restaurant where the wait staff is trying their best. Show some grace and just be patient.)
- Enjoy the JOY (Appreciate the lights and decorations, savor the extra yummy treats, cherish the time with loved ones, and truly focus on our Savior's Birth and the fulfilment of the prophesy.)
I hope your Christmas is full of JOY and the all the wonderment the season holds.
Let's spread and show that JOY this week of Christmas!
"Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory" First Peter 1:8
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