Even in seasons of difficulty, God is good, and He calls us to gratitude.
Welcome to the Christmas season! Over the next few weeks, we have concerts, celebrations, and many joyful gatherings to look forward to. My prayer for our Grace Academy family is that each of us finds moments of quiet worship and renewed awe as we celebrate our King, Jesus.
I love lists, so here is one designed not to add tasks to your plate, but to help you savor the season with intentionality and joy. I hope a few of these ideas encourage and bless you.
Give Thanks. As we step out of Thanksgiving, there is no better time to reflect on the many blessings God pours into our lives. Even in seasons of difficulty, God is good, and He calls us to gratitude. There is deep peace in knowing God is at work in every detail—even in ways we cannot yet see.
Sing. Attend a church concert or Christmas program. Sing songs that proclaim Christ’s coming to the world. Worship with joy!
Read. Whether your days are overflowing with activity or quiet and restful, I hope you’ll take time to read something that draws your heart closer to God. December is a wonderful time to revisit Luke 2:1–20. I also enjoy Advent devotionals and love discovering a new one each year.
Treasure the Moments. Put your phone down. Turn off your screens. Spend unhurried time with those you love. Play a game, go for a walk, or make Christmas cookies together. Create memories that matter.
Quit Complaining. There will always be small frustrations—the food is too salty, the room too warm, the kids too loud, the weather too dreary. Choose instead to dwell on what is good and praiseworthy. In the darkness of winter, we have the privilege of sharing the light of Christ, the One who brings hope and salvation to a weary world.
Be Quiet. Spend time meditating on Scripture. Reflect on the God of the Bible and what He desires to teach you through His Word.
Give. The tradition of giving gifts at Christmas is long cherished, yet meaningful giving often requires personal sacrifice. Shovel a neighbor’s walkway, prepare a meal for a busy family, or give generously to missionaries supported by your church. God modeled sacrificial giving by sending His Son, Jesus Christ, for our salvation. “Thanks be to God for His inexpressible gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15)
Merry Christmas!
~Natelle Austin
