Christmas is just around the corner. There feels like there is so much to do: lights, decorations, shopping, cooking, wrapping, the list goes on and on. It is easy to get so busy by the Christmas stuff that we forget to get wrapped up in Christ for Christmas. Let me tell you a story of how God is working in my heart.Just a couple of weeks ago, as I was preparing to host family for several days over Thanksgiving, I made a trip to Costco. I had a list, but as I began my shopping, I kept thinking what would everyone like this or that? I was literally driving myself crazy as I attempted to purchase items that would please everyone.I wandered by a huge, open, refrigerated case of hams. I hadn’t thought about a ham, but maybe that would be good. As I debated and had not yet even touched one of the hams, I heard the “crinkle, crinkle, crinkle” of the shiny, red, foil wrappers. And then, all at once, the hams all began to fall like an avalanche. I quickly found myself pressed against what felt like a million hams with my arms and legs stretched wide trying to hold them all back from falling all over the floor.While I was helplessly holding back hams, my sweet three-year-old stood by watching me and cried out, “Mommy, is being attacked by hams!” It wasn’t too long before a couple of ladies rounded the corner and I pleaded for them to rescue me from this pre-holiday mayhem. We all laughed, and I was relieved to have that behind me. All was well with the exception of losing one of my earrings in the ham debacle.SO where is God in this ridiculous and, unfortunately, true story? He used this moment to show me that the holidays were going to feel like getting “attacked by hams” because, in my sincere effort to care for and serve my loved ones, I was worshiping and putting my focus on all of the wrong things. For me, when I lose sight of Jesus and become too focused on earthly matters, I feel out of control. I feel burdened and the true joy that should embody the Christmas season is buried under an avalanche of worldly cares and concerns.As you enter this Christmas season, remember to remain focused on the One who loves you dearly. Be mindful to keep your worship on Him. “O come let us adore Him,” is a simple phrase, but one that can change our entire focus, especially during the busy holiday season. When Christmas is over, we want to be left with pleasant memories, a sense of peace and filled with the hope that only Jesus can give, rather than simply feeling glad that the whole thing is over.

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” Luke 2:14

“Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!” Psalm 95:6

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

This Christmas allow our Prince of Peace to guide you as you celebrate His birth by worshiping Him and enjoying time with family and friends. Remember the reason for this special season is Jesus.Rather than letting our hearts and minds worship our holiday to-do list, let’s all be intentional about keeping our focus on Him. Here are a few practical suggestions:*Bible app advent devotional https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/3268-the-magic-of-christmas*Unwrapping the Names of Jesus https://www.lifeway.com/en/product/unwrapping-the-names-of-jesus-P006161680For Families:*Truth in the Tinsel https://truthinthetinsel.com*Unwrapping the Greatest Gift https://annvoskamp.com/thegreatestchristmas*Advent Calendar Reading Plan (free printable) https://www.notconsumed.com/kids-advent-calendar