English: A Christmas Tree at Home (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

After Bible study last night, I went over to talk with a couple of friends. Willie and I had gone to their house for Thanksgiving and marveled that they already had their house decorated for Christmas. If you’re picturing a typical Christmas tree, about seven feet tall, forget it. Their tree must have been about 16 or 17 feet tall. I’m not exaggerating when I tell you that tree could have been in the foyer of Macy’s. It was absolutely beautiful, with red and gold balls as big as grapefruit.  Oh, did I tell you she had three grand trees in her house? Every room  was exquisitely decorated, not to mention the magnificent array of lights outside.

When I told her my family was coming for Christmas and that I needed to get started decorating and buying gifts, she laughed and said, “Oh, I bet you’re halfway finished with everything.” Not so! I haven’t even started. Every year I say I’m going to start early and never do it. I’m in the group that comes to life two to three weeks before Christmas. Before then, I’m in total denial that I have anything to do.

Well, today I decided to think about putting up my tree. That’s right–to think about it. I guess my husband is in my “we’ll do it later group” too. When I told him I was going to put the tree up while he was in class tonight, he asked me why I was going to put the tree up so early. Two procrastinators in one house are not healthy.

Then I began thinking about God and his wonderful grace. I’ve heard many definitions of grace, but I’d like to add mine, using each letter of the word. If you’re beginning to feel the angst of the season and not the true Spirit, think on these things:

G:    Give God praise!  We have a lot to be thankful for. We don’t have to stop just because Thanksgiving is over. We tend to take much for granted. I bet you can think of five things each day through New Year’s.

R:   Remember what he’s done for you in the past.  You find yourself filled with joy.

A:  Activate your faith. Get in God’s word and meditate on what he says. When you tend to give in to your feelings, grab hold of the truth and act accordingly.

   C: Celebrate the Risen Savior! So much is often said about Jesus dying for us, but we need to celebrate the Risen Savior! He’s alive and willing to help us with our stinking thinking.

   E:  Enter into your rest. WE can be rattled so easily (I know it’s just me.) when we get busy and lose our focus. Stop, Drop, and Roll. Get in a posture of prayer, even at work.  Look up, breathe in and be renewed.

God’s grace is limitless! Oh, come, let us adore Him; OH, Come, let Us adore Him; OH, COME, LET US ADORE HIM!!!!! CHRIST THE LORD!