Christmas Chaos

The stockings should be hung by the chimney with care and reindeer landing on the roof instead of dogs (that as a story for another time) but instead my house seems to be in chaos. Yes, I know that Pastor Craig's sermon series this month is entitled White Serenity and it is meant to help us focus on a peaceful, worshipful season. That's what I want, but that is not exactly what I have. 

Our condo has been overly crowded with people and packages; wrapping and toys; food and sticky notes all over the floor, placed strategically by a two year. I love every minute, even though it is far from serene. 

Focusing on what is really important during this season and the message of hope and salvation that the birth of Jesus brings, can be accomplished even with chaos around. After all, think about the first Christmas. 

On the beautiful Christmas cards we see each year, the scene looks picturesque, each participant perfectly placed. However if we stop and think about it, the setting was most likely in total disarray. The town was packed with visitors; the stable was dirty; the couple was fearful. The animals were probably not very peaceful and calm with a crying baby and visiting shepherds. Yet Mary and Joseph had to be thinking about what God had promised and anticipating with excitement the birth of the Savior. 

So if your home looks more like a Charlie Brown Christmas than a Southern Living one and your to do list has not been done, just remember that things don't have to be perfect to worship the Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders and He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.