"Three phrases that sum up Christmas are: Peace on Earth, Goodwill to Men, and Batteries not Included." – Author Unknown.
It was a Saturday, and I still had Christmas shopping. I must admit I was terrible and used Amazon to get presents that had to be sent to other states. I still had presents to get those I love and wanted to support local businesses.
I ventured out, not even thinking about it being Saturday or where I was going. I left in a good mood, ready to find things for friends. I thought I wanted to support local businesses, but I found myself at RiverPark (a shopping center in Fresno, CA). There are box stores there, but not small family businesses. I found myself at Best Buy and Target.
As I fought the crowds, my mood changed. I was quickly losing the Christmas spirit. I now found myself searching for a parking spot. Twice, I was waiting for a spot, and the person coming the other direction quickly turned in before the other car was completely out of my way! I was becoming agitated. (Not good!!) I finally found a parking spot a long way from the stores. The problem is right now, I am in a substantial amount of pain and walking with a cane. As good as walking is, it causes me a whole lot more pain.
Once I got in the store, I was stuck in a traffic jam of shopping carts. I spent an hour and a half looking for gifts and found what I was looking for, then made my way to the back of the store to find appropriate gift bags and tissue.
I walked from one store to the next and miraculously did well. I was in pain, but I did my shopping and made it back to my car in one piece!!
So, that is my frustrating story for my 2024 shopping trip. I got home, relieved that I had survived the ordeal.
As I drove up to my house, I saw the sign I placed in my yard. It says, “Jesus is the Reason for the Season.”
In my rush to get everything done, I had forgotten what. Christmas is all about. Getting and giving gifts is nice, but not what our focus needs to be on.
The reason for the season is to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. He came down to earth to live as a fully human, yet fully God, and die on the cross as a sacrifice for our sins so that we may be forgiven and live with Him forever in heaven. All we have to do is ask the Lord Jesus Christ to live in our hearts as Savior and Lord.
If you are interested in a relationship with Jesus Christ, DM me or talk to someone at a local Christian church.
As you read earlier, my focus was not on the true meaning of Christmas, and I just got agitated. Shopping is a part of the Christmas season. I am in no way saying to stop celebrating Christmas with our family traditions; just spend some time focusing on the true meaning of Christmas.
Merry Christmas
تعليقات