By Kelly Shank
I
t seems like every year, the push to prepare for the holidays comes at us earlier and earlier. The pressure begins in early fall, and by November 1, many of us are completely gearing up for the inevitable holiday season. It often becomes a mad dash to the finish line with a “get through it” mentality. And it can be so busy—with all the gift buying and pressure to make everything meaningful and beautiful—we overlook the things that truly matter. Then it is over, and all we feel is relief.
When this happens, we miss the moments and the people. We miss the true connections because we are so overly connected in the wrong ways. We miss the intentionality because we are simply checking items off a list. We miss making our own memories because we are too busy staring at someone else’s on a screen.
What if we took a step back this year and shifted our focus? What if we really looked outside of ourselves to see who was around us? We might become more aware of those whose holidays look very different this year. We might remember that family friend who has lost a loved one or has received a diagnosis that has altered their life entirely. We might notice those parents who can barely afford to put food on a table, let alone buy gifts. Or maybe we would reach out to a special needs family who could use some connection and extra support.
Whatever the case may be, before engaging in the crazy rush that this season brings, what if we said “no” to some things of truly less importance, so we can say “yes” to something or someone far greater?
I do not think God sent His Son for us to commemorate his birth by stressing out over the latest TikTok trend on how to decorate our tree perfectly or by buying gifts for 45 people out of obligation. On the contrary, He came to save, He came to sacrifice, He came to love, and He went after the weak, the poor, the hurting, and the lonely.
There is nothing wrong with having a beautiful tree and gifts—but when our focus gets off kilter, we miss the point entirely. So, love well, and love others with intention. Do not live through someone else’s highlight reel of memories; live out yours while truly seeing others along the way.
