I have finally given in to early Christmas-decorating this year as my husband has brought our daughter over to his side! It’s hard to resist those big, brown eyes and that sweet, little voice begging me every day, “Can it be Christmas yet?” So, yes, the Christmas lights are down, and Christmas music is playing in the car!
With my kids at the ages when Christmas is so magical and enchanting, I find myself anticipating the holidays more than ever this year! In fact, I can hardly wait until Thanksgiving either! I just enjoy my family so much, and I love that we can come together every year to share our blessings.
There’s nothing wrong with anticipating the holidays or vacation or whatever else may lie ahead. But I started to realize that I was always “looking forward” to something rather than appreciating the day that the Lord has given me!
The Bible reminds us, “This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Ps. 118:24). Sometimes I find myself anticipating the days ahead rather than focusing on the day that the Lord has already given to me!
Don’t get me wrong! I believe the Lord wants us to be excited for future events – especially for when He returns to take His saints back to heaven. But if you’re like me, then you know how easy it is to forget about this day – this ho-hum, same-old-routine kind of day.
I actually had the opportunity today to go to the grocery store by myself, and I began to ponder the day that the Lord has given me. I saw a blue sky, beautiful autumn leaves, and freshly-harvested fields. I had a carload of groceries in my trunk. I remembered that God had blessed me with a day to enjoy my children and my husband (who was off today); and I had the privilege of enjoying my friend’s children today as well! We spent time this evening with extended family members, and I am enjoying a quiet evening in a warm, safe home surrounded by those who love me the most!
So while I am looking forward to the hectic holiday season, filled with tons of fun activities, yummy treats, and time with family, I think I am going to just cherish today. After all, God hasn’t promised me a tomorrow on this earth, but He does want me to take care of the things of today. So I “will rejoice and be glad in it”!
“Take therefore no thought for tomorrow: for tomorrow shall take thought of the things for itself. . .” (Matt. 6:34).
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