So much has changed in the world. And yet, so much is the same. No need to review the changes that a world wide pandemic have wrought, we all live those changes and challenges daily. What is much the same, is the human heart. Or least mine is. I still struggle to keep my focus on eternity. My heart still instinctually moves toward the worries of finances, the allure of things, and the mirage of appearances. I would love to say this time of increased isolation has lead me to greater introspection of my heart, my focus, and my awareness of the kingdom. I would love to say that, but I won’t. Because it hasn’t happened. My heart and mind are still oriented to the here, now, and physical world, not the eternal, invisible, and the everlasting. My heart and mind are perhaps even less in tune to the Kingdom as fear, worry, and safety have overridden almost everything else.

As Christmas draws near, I am also reminded how challenging it can be to focus on more than presents, prime day, black friday, cyber monday, giving tuesday, and world wide web wednesday. Ok, so the last one isn’t a thing, yet, but give it time, it might stick. In the midst of all “this”, may all Christ followers, starting with me, be intentional. Be intentional with our thoughts, our focus, and our gift giving. May we find ways to honor Him in all we do and all we say in this Christmas season.

I am ashamed to admit that I get a bit tired of the story of baby Jesus in the manager, and no room in the inn, and the longest donkey trip recored in the bible (is it?). Instead, I am striving to be intentional and rest in the greater story, the story of a God who loves. A God who loves intentionally, everlastingly, and all encompassingly. And a God who loves me like that. Me, just as I am, not as I think I am. Me, with all my flaws, all my faults, all my pettiness, all my humanness. The beauty of Christmas is love. God’s love.

Grace and peace