FIRST! Again

By Dave Wilson

Checking out some online archives of  DJ Online News*, I came upon a  reflective Christmas message from Dave Wilson that encapsulated my current  thinking. Though written in 2003 its message is still relevant. — Ed.

About this time every December, the busyness of the season—holiday parties, shopping lists, mailing of Christmas cards or letters, tight work deadlines — begins competing with my heart’s desire to focus on what Christmas is really about. I want to make sure that Jesus’ name is lifted high, but invariably just dealing with the “tyranny of the urgent” is more the norm.
So how can you and I purposefully overcome our culture’s frantic pace and reclaim this Christmas for the King?
Here’s what the Lord has impressed on me:

1. I need to spend more time praying together with my wife for others.
2. I need to say “no” to at least as many “good” activities this holiday season as I say “yes” to — without feeling guilty.
3. I shouldn’t wait until Christmas morning to read through and ponder the Christmas story.
4. I need to go to bed before the 10 o’clock news.
5. I need to rely on the Lord to increase my awareness of those around me who are hurting and in need, and seek to tangibly reflect Christ’s love as he directs.

Instead of waiting until January 1st to make our New Year’s resolutions, would you join me in committing — with the Lord’s help — to making this Christmas more about him than it is about us?

May Christ’s richest blessings flow into and out of your lives as you continue to grow in your daily walk with him!
Merry Christmas,

Dave Wilson

* DJ Online News is distributed freely each month by www.discipleshipjournal.com. Discipleship Journal is a publication of The Navigators.