It’s the eve of Christmas Eve, and I’m relishing a warm, quiet house.

Looking forward to the next few days, and all the blessings that accompany them.

Praying for a heart that is set on Jesus, not on plans or things, or even other people.

Loving Him first. Knowing that if I get that right, all the rest will follow. Can I do just that one thing?

One thing. Remember? Jesus gently reminded Martha (and all of us, who would hear His words down through the ages) …

You are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. {Luke 10:41-42}

One thing.

Sitting at His feet “listening to what He said.” {Luke 10:39}

I want to listen. To seek Him first and not the fluff.

I love how my sweet friend Shara summarized the story, the real story, of Christmas:

christmas is a story of redemption.

sacrifice.

grace.

jesus came to die.

for me.

for you.

he came that we might live.

forever.

with him.

he came to give us joy.

not happiness or temporary satisfaction.

but joy regardless of circumstance.

The rest of Shara’s post Looking Past The Red & Green is such a good reminder of what this day, Christmas, really means.

A man who was born to die.

Joy and sorrow.

My dear friend Abby’s words cut right to my heart too as she reflects on what this time of year stirs in her …

Maybe this season reveals the darkest parts of my character because they contrast so starkly to the light that was born to redeem them.  Maybe it’s important for me to realize all the Herod, Grinch and Scrooge-like qualities that fight in my heart and remind myself just how much I need Jesus.

Ouch.

But then the joy …

Maybe a reminder of my weakness will help me remember just how important Christmas is.  Remember that Jesus came to earth to save a wretch like me.  A time to reflect on the purity of that sinless, newborn baby born into a world of sin and suffering.  A God who did not leave us helpless, but came to save.  That gives me hope and fills my soul with joy.

Such hope.

Such joy.

The people who have walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them a light has shined.  {Isaiah 9:2}