Fighting for Focus at Christmas

“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Colossians 3:2

I love this time of year. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays, gathering with my loved ones around a table, sharing good food and good conversation. But it seems that once Thanksgiving is over, with leftovers still in the fridge, the race begins… from that moment until December 25, it is a mad rush. The decorating, the gift buying, the wrapping, the food prepping, the planning, the cleaning, the Christmas parties, the events, the lights, the Santa visits, the parades, and on and on and on…

Throw in a week of sickness, like we have had in our household, and you have the perfect recipe for a loss of focus. Isn’t it ironic that we focus so much attention on Christmas that we lose focus on Christ?

Every year, I find myself having to stop and remind myself of the reason we celebrate Christmas. I have to make time, as I take in the beautiful lights on the tree and the gifts under it, to truly contemplate the greatest gift of all: Jesus Christ.

Every time I put on one of my favorite Christmas shirts or a funny pair of Christmas socks, I try to take time to think about why they even exist.

Distraction is one of the enemy’s greatest tools. If he can’t destroy your faith, he will dilute it. A mind scattered cannot be fully devoted to God.

Focus is not easy—it’s warfare. Choosing to fix your eyes on Christ requires discipline and intentionality. But the reward is clarity, peace, and strength to endure.

In this Christmas season…and throughout the year…let’s make time to remember WHY we celebrate.

What distraction steals your focus from God most often—not just at Christmas, but other times as well?

Daily Challenge:
Between now and December 25, take 15 minutes a day and focus on Jesus. This might be reading about His birth, praying, listening to songs celebrating His birth, or spending time with family, talking about His blessings. However, you choose to celebrate Christmas this year, be sure to include Jesus in the party.