It was December 3rd and I was checking my inbox, weeding out massive numbers of holiday sales flyers and advertisements when I came across one that read, “Last minute gift ideas…”. Seriously?! Last minute? Since when did 22 days before Christmas become “last minute?” I found panic rising and my mind swimming even as I rationally told myself I still had 3 weeks to complete my shopping.
But doesn’t this happen all too often…? We know what is true, but allow people, brands, and industries to create stress, panic, angst and worry in our lives. It’s kind of like we just open the door to our home, our sacred space, and let “Whoever” walk right in and create alarm.
Who gave that person permission to freak me out? I did.
Who gave that person the right to enter my personal mental space and stir up worry? I did.
Every time I meditate on worry I am refusing to meditate on truth. Every time I meditate on truth, I simply can’t think to worry. It is either light or dark, but they can’t inhabit the same space.
Now, 2 weeks later, my family has gone through several rounds of colds, stomach viruses and an ear infection and I don’t find myself much further along in my Christmas preparations. I am tired. I am worn out. I am behind. There are only 2 wrapped Christmas gifts under our tree and many that have not been checked off my list. Let’s not even talk about Christmas cards.
While there is a part of me that wants to cry, blame someone or something, and throw up my hands exasperated, I should be grateful that I can actually sit on my couch and type. Only yesterday, I laid huddled in the fetal position all day, with a fever, chills and my stomach in agony… with a 1-year-old pulling at me, wanting to play.
To be honest, I don’t really know how I am going to “get it all done.” Maybe “it all” is not as important as I think? Well, right now, I still think it is!
It is difficult to feel merry when I feel so behind. But, once again, 14 days later, I have an opportunity… an opportunity to choose panic or peace.
Sometimes, when life feels overwhelming, it is difficult to figure out even where to start. What is most important? Where should I invest my time? What deserves my mental energy FIRST?
There is a song that has encouraged me so many times in the last few months. It doesn’t give me any new revelations or brilliant ideas how to channel the powers of my inner superwoman, but it reminds me to do one thing, one thing that is so innate that we don’t even give it a second thought.
Breathe, just breathe.
Johnny Diaz sings it beautifully. The only place to find peace, clarity, and fresh perspective for our day, is at the feet of Jesus.
You don’t have to go another moment feeling inadequate, overwhelmed and stressed.
TRUTH: Come to Me, all who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. –Matthew 11:28 (NLT)
To hear the full song, click here.