Shepherding Christmas

The Christmas season is “the most wonderful time of the year” and also can be the most hectic time! It is both stillness and wonder and an endless to do list. It is joyful and hopeful but can be difficult in the face of loss or broken relationships. It is a reminder of Jesus – the greatest gift ever given – and can also be a reminder of something we lack. 

Given these potential extremes, how do we approach Christmas? Parents, and perhaps especially mothers, not only set the temperature for the mood of our households, we are the “magic makers,” the moment creators, and the ones who orchestrate and navigate for our families. How do we manage the challenges of the season and maintain our own joy? The first step is to focus on Jesus.

“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” Psalms 23:1 NIV

The Lord is our shepherd—He is the One who sustains us, protects and provides for us, and who walks with us all year. 

“The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” Colossians 1:15-17 NIV

Jesus is this Shepherd—the image of the invisible God. And unlike any other shepherd, He is also the sacrificial lamb. We worship and celebrate this baby who is our God—the alpha and omega, the beginning and the end, who was and is and is to come! And, who chose to lay down His life for His sheep. 

“My sheep listen to my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” John‬ ‭10‬:‭27‬ ‭NET‬‬

Jesus knows us and He knows what we need. Listen for His voice this Christmas and follow Him to the peace and rest only He can provide. 

Focusing on Jesus first will free us to enjoy the season, not just survive it. Practically, your children may or may not remember the meals and the events and even the presents, but they will remember you. With that in mind, choose to participate in what you enjoy and love. Don’t let yourself get worn thin and frazzled in the stress of doing. Do what brings you joy and that joy will be contagious to your family.

Prayer: Lord, in the busyness of Christmas, give us what we need to receive the gift of Your love this Christmas all over again, in wonder and amazement at Your provision for each of us.