No More Mr. Grinch
When I was a kid, one of my favorite holiday TV shows was “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” The Grinch’s unruly green fur and evil intentions made him a character I certainly didn’t want to meet. As unsavory as he is, I have to admit, I still turn up the volume when The Grinch Theme Song is played during the holidays:
“You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch
You really are a heel,
You’re as cuddly as a cactus, you’re as charming as an eel, Mr. Grinch,
You’re a bad banana with a greasy black peel!”
(http://www.41051.com/xmaslyrics/grinch.html)
Re-focusing
Although I’d like to say I’m nothing like the Grinch, if I’m not careful I can easily begin grumbling and complaining as the holiday calendar begins filling up. It’s not that I don’t enjoy each and every event. But I tend to get too focused on the work and preparation rather than concentrating on the reason for celebrating: the gift of Jesus.
This year I want to focus on what’s important.
Being intentional goes a long way toward taming the Grinch-y nature inside of me.
Consider the following:
Take time to be still. Guard your daily time with the Lord. Adjust your schedule accordingly.
O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my would thristeth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;Psalm 63:1
Monitor your thinking. Recognize destructive thought patterns (bitterness, complaining, comparison, etc.) Think on the right things.
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.Romans 12:2
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.Philippians 4:8
Make a list of blessings. What are you thankful for? Add one thing to the list each day throughout the month of December.
I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,Philippians 1:3
Look around you. Who can you encourage? Does a neighbor need to hear about the Christ of Christmas? Do what you can where you are.
To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.1 Corinthians 9:22
Spending time with the Savior makes all the difference.
Your turn
Do you dread the busyness of the Christmas season? Does it bring out the Grinch in you? What step will you take today to focus on the Savior?
Can I pray for you?
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us to slow down. We’re prone to get caught up in the busyness of this time of year without realizing it. Forgive us. Give us the grace to be still, renew our minds, count our blessings, and reach out to others. We love You, Lord. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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