It doesn't take much to feel stressed and frustrated during the holidays. I find myself making all kinds of lists — Christmas gift shopping lists, grocery lists, menus, appointments, and that doesn't include the list of daily chores unrelated to the holidays, like laundry, cleaning, and cooking.
And those are just the inside things ... there's also leaves to rake and pick up, patio to sweep, pine straw to "fluff," and Christmas decorations to put up.
I know it's only the 2nd day of December, but thinking about everything that has to be done between now and Christmas Eve can sometimes be a little overwhelming, both physically and mentally.
I took time out from my list making to write this post and came across a poem I featured on my blog this time last year. It helped put things into perspective for me.
If you've been feeling overwhelmed or stressed, perhaps the poem will inspire you, too.
You won't need a special star.
I'm no longer just in Bethlehem,
I'm right there where you are.
You may not be aware of Me
Amid the celebrations —
You'll have to look beyond the stores,
And all the decorations.
But if you take a moment,
From your list of things to do ...
And listen to your heart, you'll find ...
I'm waiting there for you.
You're the one I want to be with,
You're the reason that I came,
And you'll find Me in the stillness,
As I'm whispering your name.
Love,
Jesus
[Author unknown]
Photos borrowed from the Internet
