Christmas, The Season of Exhaustion?

Between the parties, shopping, cooking, decorating, travelling, and Christmas programs/services at church, this has to be one of the most exhausting times of the year.

I am not complaining.  All of those activities are what makes Christmas special.  But sometimes it feels like you run out of energy before Christmas even arrives.

Today I was listening to some Christmas music and all of a sudden it hit me.  The Christmas story is filled with stories of exhaustion.

Think about it...

The Wise Men...traveled
The Shepherds...traveled
Mary & Joseph...traveled

They all must have been exhausted.  I complain because I have to sit in a car for a couple of hours.  I can't imagine what it must of been like to travel a long distance over 2000 years ago.  Not to mention the lack of rest stops along the way and we know there was no luxury hotel.

But the best part of the story is that it was all worth it.  We celebrate the birth of our saviour.

So the next time you feel like this season isn't worth it.  Think about a star, a manger, and a baby that would change the world.

Patience

Has anyone advised you to not pray for patience?   Because the only way to have patience is to have your patience tested.  My patience was tested today.

I had to renew my health card, vehicle registration, and driver's license.  Thankfully I can do it at the same place now.  I am very thankful for that.  So what's the problem?  Go, stand in line for a few minutes, show them you know the date and how to write your name, and you're done.  Yes, that is the case most of the time.

Today, on a busy day full of activity, I rushed on my lunch break to get everything done.  I walked in the door and to my surprise, and complete jubilation realized that there was no line...on a Friday! 

With a giddy smile on my face, I'm sure, I took a few steps and realized that I had forgotten one of the forms.  I wanted to scream but knew that I would scare the poor old lady behind me, and perhaps get escorted off the premises.  Instead, I grumbled back to my car to drive back to the radio station to get the form.  Forty-five minutes later the process was complete and everything was in order.

It got me thinking about the grace of God.  I must make him crazy....on a daily basis...because He has to be so patient with me.  He sees my talents, abilities, and potential but has to watch me spin my tires all time until I learn my lesson.

Aren't you glad He doesn't give up on us?  In fact, instead of giving up He surrounds us with people who can challenge and encourage us, and even left behind a manual to help us realize that our situation is not unique. Someone before us has been hurt, confused, frustrated, and impatient.

If you haven't lately, crack open the Bible and be amazed at how it will speak directly to you when you need it the most.

Favourite Songs

Every once in awhile it's fun to compare favourite songs.  Here is what I am enjoying lately...

I learned this week that The Afters wrote a song with Richard Marx (yep...that Richard Marx) on their latest album.  He called them and flew to Nashville to meet with the guys and co-wrote this song.

Here is the result:

Kerrie Roberts - My Heart's Lifted

I just enjoy "feel good" songs.

Young Chozen - Without You...guilty Slammin Christian Hits pleasure.

Hillsong - Christ Is Enough - love this stripped down version

Switchfoot - Let It Out...quality isn't great, but it's just a reminder of how good a live Switchfoot show is.  Not a bad song either.

Your Life On The Big Screen

It can be tough to imagine what it would be like to make the story of your life into a movie.  Once that decision is made, then the real fun begins.  Who would be cast to play you?  Would it be a dramatic story line with lots of surprises or an all out action movie loaded with special effects?  You already have the concept in mind...fun!

Now, imagine the movie was only made to highlight the mistakes, problems, embarrassing moments, and sinful parts of your life.  Are you still as excited?  Me neither.

Most of our co-workers, friends, and even family members don't even know the worst of us.  But God does.  He could have made an example of us all.  He could expose all of our mistakes and sins on a regular basis to keep us in a constant state of humiliation.  But he didn't, he doesn't .  Instead, he gives us the free gift that is so easy to receive...grace.  God send his son Jesus to wipe the dark side of our life away if only we believe in Him.

There are many songs that talk about God's grace. Hopefully this one is a gentle reminder of what He has done for us.

Quality isn't great...but the story is amazing.