Simplifying Christmas

Doesn’t the idea of simplifying anything sound nice? If you’re like many women, you may be finding yourself hurried and harried as Christmas approaches. Join us this month on the blog as we look at how to simplify Christmas so that we can slow down and keep our eyes on who matters most: Jesus.

Today has been busy! I’ve only had a matter of minutes to myself thus far, and still have things on my to-do list. You may likely be in the same boat. It’s funny… as I sit to write this introduction post about slowing down, I’m not feeling the slowness.

But I want to.

Today, a good friend mentioned that there are more things to do this Christmas than she and her family have time for. Her wise solution? Choose carefully where to invest your time and attention. After all, we can save the non-priorities for another time or even another year.

Instead, make His priorities ours.

My goal is to slow down this Christmas and simplify things. I want to linger this season at the feet of my Savior and have sweet moments with Him untouched by frenzy or materiality.  And I also want to leave a legacy to my children and loved ones of savoring my Savior!

Maybe you feel this way, too?

Though not a typical Christmas verse, I remember the story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10:38-42. Martha wasn’t choosing a bad thing by busying herself with serving, but she was overlooking the most important thing:  Jesus. Mary, on the other hand, wanted a meaningful encounter with the Lord and was commended for her choice.

Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:38-42)

We hope you’ll join us this month as we explore ways of Simplifying Christmas. Together, we’ll look at things we can do (and even not do) to create an environment of less stress and instead make room for more Jesus. We’ll point you to tips, ideas, and even resources that focus on keeping things simple. (Because after all, who needs more to do, right?)

We pray that Jesus would be glorified and your heart and home would rejoice in the peace that Jesus brings… this season and always.

Have you found ways to simplify Christmas? What has worked for you? Share with us in the comments or in our DoNotDepart community group on Facebook.

Blessings,

Ali