“…put your hope in God and know real blessing!” Psalm 146:5b
As you are out-and-about scurrying to stores, parties, and relatives’ homes, you may get a bit tired of the traffic, snappy attitudes, long lines, and the hectic this season can often bring. As you see or even participate in these activities and/or attitudes one may have a tendency to lose hope. Hope that others realize what the true meaning of this season is.
I learned a long time ago that when waiting in those long lines, be patient. Look around at others. You may notice a look of stress on someone’s face. Don’t just look and exhale an “I’m with you” sigh, but try silently praying for them. Maybe you didn’t have a chance to get all your shopping done ahead of time, or from the comfort of your own home by the click of a button, for a reason, but just so you can be a blessing to someone who truly needs a little silent prayer for them.
As a brief example, I went to the photo store today (for the third time in a week). I passed by two long lines of customers waiting to checkout. When I reached the photo area I noticed two people ahead of me with a buggy full to purchase, and they didn’t even have any photos to pick up. At first I thought to myself, “Really?”, but then took a breath and reevaluated myself. I looked at the couple two customers ahead of me. The elderly lady was still in her pajamas. She just may have had something going on in her life, needed to get out in a hurry, and took the opportunity of a no line situation at the photo counter. I said a little prayer.
And then the lady directly in front of me was holding the most precious newborn who was sleeping so sweetly on his mother’s shoulder. I could tell that she need assistance in unloading and loading her shipping cart, so I began helping without saying a word. She was grateful. I wished her a Merry Christmas and then she left.
What could have been an eye-rolling, deep sigh type of experience became a blessing not only for others, but for me as well. God gave me grace and patience.
Yes, this season can be a bit hectic. Don’t lose hope. Remember where your hope needs to be…in the Lord.
When you focus on the real reason for this season, you just may discover that His hope will shine though you to be a blessing to others.
JESUS is the reason for this season. Don’t lose hope in Him.
Blessings and God’s abundant love to all!
- Merry Christmas from my family to yours.
