A Friendly Christmas Reminder

 

Every year, we try to schedule a family photo shoot sometime in November. One photo becomes our annual Christmas card photo, while the rest we add to the family archives. This year, I planned our shoot in between two other functions. Our girls were just not having it.

I was rushing them; they became upset. I picked out their outfits; now, they were even more upset. But I wasn't bothered; I was on a mission to get my shoot done and over with.  

The entire one-hour trip there, we sat in absolute silence.  

When we arrived, I begged them to smile for the photographer. "Please at least pretend," I urged them. 

On our way home, I began reflecting.  

I realized that while I was on a mission to get the perfect shot, I was compromising my relationship with the girls. Thankfully, within the next hour or so, we could reconnect, but then I thought, how often do I let this occur? How often do I let the momentary cares of this world steal the peace and harmony of my home?  

A story out of Luke 10 came to mind.

Martha and Mary were sisters.  

One day, Jesus pays them a visit.

Martha immediately gets to business; she has a party to host.  

But Martha was very busy and distracted with all of her serving responsibilities, and she approached Him and said, "Lord, is it of no concern to You that my sister has left me to do the serving alone? Tell her to help me and do her part." (Luke 10:40 Am)

Martha was clearly annoyed with her sister, Mary.  

Every household member should know that when mom has a party to host, you should steer as far away from her as possible.

"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." (vs 41-42 NIV) 

But Jesus graciously teaches Martha a lesson.

Martha, stop prioritizing the momentary things and concentrate on building the things that will last. Your relationship with your sister will serve you longer than the present party you're trying to host. Your relationship with your children is much more important than the perfect Christmas photo card you aim to achieve.   

Let's not forfeit our peace this Christmas season while hustling from one function to the next. 

Like Mary, let's get intentional about enjoying the moment and focus on nurturing the things that will last.