This will be the first post in my Christmas series titled; Who Put the “HECK” in Deck the Halls!?

Before, starting I put some questions out there, to get the opinions of others regarding their celebration of Christmas. My first two revelers, one male, one female were quick to answer when I asked the first question; What is the first word that comes to mind when you think about Christmas? Strangely enough they both said “stressful.” When asked to elaborate the female talked non stop about the decorating and the cooking. She shared how stressful it is because everyone is looking. Coming from the mouth of an introvert, she totally hates drawing attention to herself or her home. She dreads inviting quests over for Christmas parties, feeling like her efforts never match up with other’s expectations…including her families or even her own. Being in the spotlight makes her anxious, nervous and fearful which all stresses her out. She doesn’t want all eyes on her or her boughs!
Deck the halls with boughs of holly Fa la la la la…la la la la

In the past I wanted all the attention regarding my decorating and only positive compliments on the food I prepared. Now there’s nothing wrong with a good sincere compliment, or being able to accept a compliment graciously and humbly. But when the only reason you prepare your home, invite guests,and try TV celebrities recipe’s is to show or prove how good you are, drawing attention to your giftedness, craftiness then you stress yourself out, and you stress out the loved ones around you. You steal their Christmas joy along with your own.

I recently hosted two almost back to back early holiday parties at my home. I wanted to bring a little Christmas joy into the lives of those around me. Mostly, I wanted to honor the Lord with our celebrating. I started down that familiar road of getting anxious about everything being perfect when Gods voice said “enjoy yourself”. As I reflected on that statement from the Lord, I made a decision not to put Hubs or myself through “Heck” as I prepared for these festivities with my anger when things didn’t turn out perfect. And boy did the Devil set out to jack me up! The first plan that fell through, did rattle Hubs but, I stayed calm. The second dead end we hit, I just took a deep breath and set my mind firmly on calm. When the third obstacle appeared I laughingly shared it with Hubs so we both got a kick out of it. As the fourth flaming arrow was released in our direction, I just plain refused to let the devil get a fire lit under me making me react with anger and stress. As it turned out….both parties were… imperfectly….enjoyable to all involved!

If you find yourself stressed, or feeling the need to have the spotlight pointing at you through your meal or decorations then I hope you’ll join me….as we do all things, in order for God to get the glory! And by also keeping our emotions under control, we are allowing those closest to us to have joy!

“God, we thank you for your Son who’s birth we celebrate at Christmas, may all the attention be given to him through our celebration’s. Keep us focused and protect us from the schemes of the devil. In Jesus name Amen.”